Troops of the 12 Brigade, operating under the 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, have foiled a planned kidnapping operation and neutralized a suspected terrorist during a successful ambush in Lokoja Local Government Area.
Key Highlights:
According to a statement issued by the acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi the operation was carried out on May 30, 2026, following credible intelligence that terrorists were planning abductions within the Jakura II community.
He said acting on the intelligence, troops swiftly deployed to a suspected terrorist crossing point along the Old Obajana–Tajimi Road, where they laid an ambush to intercept the criminals.
During the operation, soldiers engaged the terrorists in a firefight, resulting in the death of one suspected terrorist. Other members of the group reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, five magazines, 70 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a bandolier, and mobile phones.
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The army said the recovered items further confirmed the group’s involvement in kidnapping activities in the area.
Military authorities said the operation underscores the determination of troops to sustain offensive actions against terrorists and other criminal elements threatening public safety.
Troops have continued exploitation operations aimed at tracking and apprehending the fleeing suspects.
Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, commended the troops for their vigilance, professionalism, and dedication.
He also reassured residents of the military’s commitment to maintaining pressure on criminal groups and urged members of the public to provide timely and actionable intelligence to security agencies.
