Lokoja, Kogi State | January 3, 2026
Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Lokoja, have recorded significant operational successes following coordinated fighting patrols and ambush operations conducted across parts of Kabba Bunu and Yagba West Local Government Areas of Kogi State.
Acting on credible intelligence regarding the movement of bandits from the Adankolo general area towards Agbadu Bunu in Kabba Bunu LGA, troops swiftly deployed and laid a strategic ambush at an identified crossing point. The bandits subsequently ran into the ambush position and were engaged, forcing them to withdraw with indications of casualties, as bloodstains were observed during exploitation of the area.
In the course of the encounter, two bandits were neutralised, while troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, 99 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one locally fabricated firearm and 11 cartridges.
In a related operation, further intelligence revealed bandit activity around Saminaka village in Yagba West LGA. Troops, working in collaboration with local vigilantes, conducted a fighting patrol to the village and adjoining forested areas. On arrival, the village was found deserted, prompting troops to dismount and conduct a thorough search of surrounding forests and routes leading towards the Saminaka–Sabo Rijiya road.
During the operation, troops made contact with an unconfirmed number of bandits and engaged them, resulting in their withdrawal through the forest. Subsequent exploitation of the withdrawal route led to the discovery of one neutralised bandit, one AK-47 rifle and 17 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
During the same operation, troops also arrested a suspected bandit logistics supplier, identified as Sunday Adedotun, from Odo Eri village in Yagba West LGA. The suspect was apprehended on a farmland within Saminaka village, where he reportedly claimed to assist farmers with the transportation of produce after harvest. Items recovered from the settlement included cartons of energy drinks and soft drinks, bottled water and harvested farm produce. The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing investigation.
The series of operations highlights the sustained pressure being mounted by troops against criminal elements and their support networks within the area.
Commending the troops, the Commander of 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, praised their professionalism, courage and timely response to credible intelligence. He noted that the successful operations reflect a high level of commitment to duty and assured the public that troops would continue to sustain aggressive patrols, ambushes and intelligence-driven operations to deny criminal elements freedom of action across the area.
