March 31, (THEWILL) — The Nigerian Army has intensified its offensive against criminal elements in Kogi State, tightening its grip on terrorist networks with the successful bust of a logistics supply chain, the neutralisation of a terrorist, and the recovery of arms, cash, and communication devices in coordinated operations across Lokoja Local Government Area.
The Nigerian Army said troops of the 12 Brigade recorded significant operational breakthroughs following sustained clearance operations and intelligence-driven raids aimed at dismantling terrorist support structures in the North Central region.
A report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday revealed that troops, acting on credible intelligence, intensified checkpoints and clearance operations along key routes in Lokoja LGA to disrupt terrorist movements and supply networks.
According to the report, troops deployed along the Jamata–Owara axis intercepted and arrested a suspected terrorist logistics courier conveying supplies on a motorcycle. A search of the suspect led to the discovery of a modified fuel tank allegedly designed for concealing ammunition, alongside three mobile phones and a purchase receipt suspected to be linked to terrorist logistics operations.
Further exploitation of intelligence obtained from the suspect reportedly led troops to a suspected logistics exchange point, where contact was made with fleeing terrorists. In the ensuing engagement, troops neutralised one terrorist, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
Items recovered from the scene include a motorcycle, a pump-action belt with cartridges, charms, drinks, a mobile phone, a side bag, and a cash sum of ₦20,000.
In a separate operation within the same locality, troops arrested another suspected terrorist in the Bakumba community, Lokoja LGA. The suspect was alleged to have been involved in the kidnapping and murder of a resident in the community and is currently in custody for interrogation.
The report further noted that troops in other parts of the North Central region sustained coordinated operations, leading to the recovery of rustled livestock and a rapid response to attacks on civilian communities.
Along the Katsina–Kano border axis, troops on fighting patrol intercepted suspected cattle rustlers on Sunday, arresting two suspects and recovering 142 rustled cattle, four mobile phones, and a small solar panel believed to have been used for coordination of criminal activities.
Military authorities assured residents of continued proactive and intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, restoring peace, and ensuring the safety of lives and property across affected regions.
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