Troops of the 12 Brigade, 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, have foiled a planned kidnapping operation and killed a suspected terrorist during a gun battle in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The operation, carried out on May 30, followed intelligence reports that armed criminals were planning to abduct residents in Jakura II community.
Acting swiftly on the information, soldiers deployed to a suspected crossing point along the Old Obajana–Tajimi Road and laid an ambush for the gang.
According to the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce exchange of gunfire.
“During the operation, troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them effectively. One terrorist was neutralised, while others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds,” he said.
A follow-up search of the area led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, five magazines, 70 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a bandolier and mobile phones.
Military authorities said the recovered items further confirmed the group’s involvement in kidnapping activities within the area.
Abdullahi noted that troops have continued efforts to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
Commending the soldiers, the Commander of 12 Brigade, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, praised their courage, vigilance and professionalism.
He reassured residents that the military would sustain pressure on terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal elements threatening peace and security in the state.
The commander also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to help combat crime.
