Troops of the Nigerian Army have destroyed a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in Edimogbo Forest, Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State, recovering 1,000 rounds of ammunition, six motorcycles and other items during an offensive operation.
The operation was carried out by troops of the 21 Battalion Quick Reaction Force (QRF), following credible intelligence indicating the presence of suspected kidnappers operating from the forest.
According to the Army, the troops swiftly mobilised to the location but came under alert fire from the suspected criminals, who reportedly fired a shot to notify other members of the gang before fleeing deeper into the forest.
The soldiers pursued the fleeing suspects but did not make contact with them. However, they subsequently destroyed the hideout, including structures believed to have been used to support the criminal activities.
Items recovered during the operation included 1,000 rounds of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition, seven bandoliers, two shovels, a hand pump, a mobile phone, a Glo modem, two packets of soap, a jerrycan of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), clothing, shoes and six motorcycles.
In a statement issued on Monday, by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army said troops were continuing to comb the surrounding areas in an effort to track down the fleeing suspects.
The military reiterated its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against kidnappers and other criminal elements, assuring Nigerians of its determination to protect lives and property.
It also urged members of the public to provide credible and timely information to security agencies to strengthen ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the country.