Odita Sunday 
By Odita Sunday
Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, under the 2 Division, have foiled a planned kidnap operation and neutralised a suspected terrorist during an ambush operation in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The operation, conducted on Friday, followed credible intelligence indicating that terrorists were planning to carry out kidnapping activities within Jakura II Community.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, troops swiftly deployed to a suspected crossing point used by the criminal group along the Old Obajana–Tajimi Road.
The statement said the troops laid an ambush at the location to deny the terrorists freedom of movement and disrupt their planned operation.
“During the operation, troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them with effective fire,” the statement said.
Following the gun battle, one suspected terrorist was neutralised, while other members of the group reportedly escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.
Troops later carried out further exploitation of the area, leading to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, five magazines, 70 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one bandolier and mobile phones.
The Army said the recovered items further confirmed the involvement of the criminal elements in kidnapping activities within the area.
The statement noted that the successful operation underscores the determination of troops of the 12 Brigade to sustain offensive operations against terrorists and other criminal elements threatening public safety.
It added that troops were continuing exploitation operations in the area to track down and apprehend fleeing members of the gang.
Commending the troops for their vigilance and professionalism, the Commander, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, praised their combat efficiency and commitment to duty.
He reassured residents of the Brigade’s determination to sustain pressure on terrorists and criminal elements operating within the state.
The Brigade Commander also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence to aid ongoing operations.
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