RismadarVoice Reporters
October 31, 2026
Troops of Sector 3, Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, have reportedly killed two suspected bandits during an intelligence-led operation along the Adankolo–Apata Road in Kogi State.
The operation, conducted on Saturday, October 31, followed intelligence reports concerning the movement of suspected criminals around communities in Kabba-Bunu and Lokoja local government areas.
According to a statement by the task force’s spokesperson, Captain Ahmad Zubairu, troops were deployed to intercept suspected bandits believed to be using the route for logistical activities.
The soldiers reportedly established an ambush along the suspected supply route and subsequently encountered a group of armed individuals.
Zubairu said the troops engaged the suspects, forcing them to retreat into surrounding areas.
Following the encounter, the soldiers continued searching the area to determine the outcome of the operation and recover any abandoned weapons or other materials.
At approximately 9 p.m., the troops received information about the discovery of bodies believed to be those of suspected bandits near Adankolo Forest.
The soldiers proceeded to the location, where they reportedly recovered two bodies.
The task force also recovered a locally made pistol, one cartridge and an empty 7.62mm special ammunition case during the operation.
The military did not disclose the identities of the deceased or provide details establishing their alleged involvement in criminal activities.
The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke and General Officer Commanding 5 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their conduct during the operation.
Gara described intelligence-led operations as important to efforts aimed at disrupting criminal activities and improving security across communities within the task force’s area of responsibility.
He urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing credible and timely information about suspicious movements and activities.
The commander also reaffirmed the task force’s commitment to protecting lives and property through sustained security operations.
Operation Whirl Stroke has continued conducting patrols and intelligence-led missions across parts of Nigeria’s North-Central region to address kidnapping, armed attacks and other security threats.
The latest incident highlights the military’s continuing operations against suspected criminal groups in Kogi State.
However, the circumstances surrounding the deaths and the identities of the deceased have not been independently verified beyond the military’s account.
