Enhanced Military Campaigns Curtail Banditry in Kogi State

Recent coordinated military interventions by the Nigerian Army have significantly disrupted bandit operations within Kogi State, particularly in the Kabba Bunu and Yagba West Local Government Areas. These decisive actions underscore the ongoing commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.

Operational Highlights and Key Arrests

According to Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, in a briefing dated January 3, 2026, troops engaged and neutralized two armed bandits during the missions. The military forces seized an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and ammunition, effectively diminishing the bandits’ firepower.

Among those detained was Sunday Adedotun, apprehended with a cache of supplies including cartons of energy drinks, soft drinks, bottled water, and freshly harvested crops. Authorities suspect these provisions were intended to sustain bandit groups operating in the area.

Intelligence-Driven Ambushes Foil Bandit Advances

Acting on credible intelligence about bandit movements from Adankolo towards Agbadu Bunu in Kabba Bunu LGA, military units strategically positioned themselves at a known transit point. The bandits, caught off guard by the ambush, retreated hastily, leaving behind signs of casualties such as blood traces.

Recovered items from the encounter included an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, ninety-nine rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a locally made firearm, and eleven cartridges, highlighting the substantial armament employed by the criminals.

Collaborative Forest Patrols in Yagba West LGA

Following reports of bandit presence near Saminaka village in Yagba West, the Nigerian Army partnered with local vigilante groups to conduct thorough patrols and forest sweeps. Upon arrival, the village was found deserted, prompting an extensive search along forest trails leading to Saminaka Sabo Rijiya road.

Engagements with unidentified bandits ensued, forcing their withdrawal. Subsequent investigations uncovered one deceased bandit, an AK-47 rifle, and seventeen rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, further weakening the bandits’ operational capabilities.

Detention of a Suspected Bandit Supply Coordinator

During the operations, Sunday Adedotun was arrested on farmland within Saminaka village. While he claimed to assist farmers by transporting their produce, the large quantities of beverages and agricultural goods found in his possession raised concerns about his role in facilitating bandit logistics.

He remains in custody as security agencies continue their investigations into his activities and possible connections to criminal networks.

Ongoing Military Commitment to Regional Stability

These successful military engagements reflect the Nigerian Army’s unwavering resolve to dismantle bandit networks and their support systems in Kogi State. Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, Commander of the 12 Brigade, commended the troops for their courage, professionalism, and swift action based on actionable intelligence.

He assured residents that the military will sustain rigorous patrols, ambushes, and intelligence-led operations to restrict the mobility of criminal elements and enhance security across the state.