Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade, Lokoja, have recorded major operational successes following coordinated patrols and ambush operations across Kabba Bunu and Yagba West Local Government Areas of Kogi State.
The operations, conducted on January 3, 2026, were based on credible intelligence indicating the movement of bandits from the Adankolo general area toward Agbadu Bunu in Kabba Bunu LGA. Acting swiftly, troops deployed and laid an ambush along a suspected crossing point.
The bandits reportedly ran into the ambush and were engaged by the troops, forcing them to retreat with indications of casualties, as bloodstains were observed during follow-up exploitation of the area.
During the encounter, two bandits were neutralized, 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, intelligence also revealed bandit activity around Saminaka village in Yagba West LGA. Troops, working alongside local vigilantes, carried out a fighting patrol to the village and adjoining forest areas.
On arrival, the village was found deserted, prompting troops to dismount and conduct a thorough search of surrounding forests and routes leading toward the Saminaka–Sabo Rijiya road.
Troops later made contact with an unconfirmed number of bandits and engaged them, forcing the criminals to withdraw through the forest. Further exploitation of the withdrawal route led to the discovery of one neutralized bandit, one AK-47 rifle and 17 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
During the same operation, troops arrested a suspected bandit logistics supplier identified as Sunday Adedotun from Odo Eri village in Yagba West LGA. The suspect was apprehended on farmland within Saminaka village. He claimed to assist farmers in transporting produce after harvest.
Items recovered from the settlement included cartons of energy drinks, soft drinks, bottled water and harvested farm produce. The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing investigation.
The Commander of 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, commended the troops for their professionalism, courage and swift response to intelligence.
He assured residents that the brigade would continue to sustain aggressive patrols, ambushes and intelligence-driven operations to deny criminal elements freedom of action within the area.