RismadarVoice Reporters, May 30, 2026
Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have foiled a planned kidnap operation and neutralised one suspected terrorist during an ambush in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The operation, conducted on 30 May 2026, followed credible intelligence indicating that armed criminals were preparing to launch kidnapping attacks around the Jakura II community.
Acting on the intelligence, the troops were deployed and positioned along the Old Obajana–Tajimi Road, where they mounted an ambush at a suspected crossing point used by the criminals.
During the encounter, the soldiers engaged the suspects in a firefight, killing one of them while others fled the scene with suspected gunshot wounds.
A follow-up search of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, five magazines, 70 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, a bandolier, and mobile phones, which the army said confirmed the group’s involvement in kidnapping operations in the area.
The Nigerian Army said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to sustain pressure on criminal elements and prevent attacks on communities within Kogi State and adjoining areas.
Commander of the 12 Brigade, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, commended the troops for their vigilance and combat efficiency, urging continued operational readiness and public cooperation through timely intelligence sharing.
Further clearance operations are ongoing in the area to track fleeing members of the gang.
