Troops Foil Bandits’ Movement, Arrest Suspected Logistics Supplier in Kogi

Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 12 Brigade, Lokoja, have recorded another operational success in the ongoing fight against banditry and criminal activities in Kogi State, following a series of coordinated patrols, intelligence-led ambushes and joint operations with local vigilantes across parts of the state.

The operations, which took place on Saturday, January 3, 2026, were conducted in Kabba/Bunu and Yagba West Local Government Areas, areas that have in recent months experienced security concerns linked to the movement of armed bandits through forested routes and rural communities.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, the troops acted on credible intelligence indicating that a group of bandits was moving from the Adankolo axis toward Agbadu Bunu in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area. Based on this intelligence, soldiers were swiftly deployed to identified crossing points commonly used by criminal elements.

The statement explained that the troops laid a well-coordinated ambush along the suspected route. The bandits reportedly walked straight into the ambush and were immediately engaged by the soldiers. During the ensuing exchange, two bandits were neutralised, while one AK-47 rifle was recovered from the scene. The troops reportedly suffered no casualties during the encounter.

Following the initial success, further intelligence pointed to another movement of bandits around Saminaka village and surrounding forest areas in Yagba West Local Government Area. Acting on this information, troops, working in collaboration with local vigilante groups familiar with the terrain, conducted patrols in the area and extended their operations to adjoining forest routes.

On arrival at Saminaka village, the troops reportedly found the community deserted, raising suspicion of possible criminal activity nearby. This prompted the soldiers to dismount and carry out a thorough sweep of the surrounding forest and access routes leading toward the Saminaka–Sabo Rijiya road. During the patrol, the troops encountered a number of suspected bandits, leading to another engagement.

In the course of the operation, the troops arrested a suspected bandit logistics supplier identified as Sunday Adedotun, a native of Odo Eri village in Yagba West Local Government Area. According to the Army, the suspect was apprehended on a farmland within Saminaka village, where he claimed to be assisting farmers in transporting produce from their farms.

However, items discovered in his possession raised strong suspicion. These included cartons of energy drinks and soft drinks, bottled water, as well as harvested farm produce. Security sources believe such items are commonly supplied to bandits hiding in forest camps to sustain their operations.

The suspect has since been taken into custody and is currently undergoing investigation to determine the extent of his involvement, possible accomplices, and links to armed groups operating in the area.

Reacting to the development, the Commander of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, commended the troops for their professionalism, courage and timely response to actionable intelligence. He noted that the successful operations reflect the high level of commitment, discipline and readiness of the soldiers under his command.

Brigadier General Sidi reassured residents of Kogi State and the general public that the Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property. He stressed that troops would continue to sustain aggressive patrols, ambushes and intelligence-driven operations aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of movement and operational space within the state.

Meanwhile, the development has generated widespread reactions among Nigerians, particularly on social media platforms. While many praised the troops for acting proactively and disrupting bandits’ movements, others urged security agencies to ensure that investigations are thorough and evidence-based to avoid wrongful accusations.

Some commentators also highlighted the importance of identifying and dismantling logistics and support networks that enable bandits to survive in forest hideouts, noting that cutting off supplies is as critical as confronting armed fighters.

Despite differing opinions, the latest operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s continued efforts to degrade criminal networks through intelligence-led operations and community collaboration, as security agencies intensify actions to restore peace and stability in Kogi State and beyond.