The 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Lokoja has announced significant achievements in its ongoing Operation EGWUA A TITE II in Kogi State.
In a statement released on Sunday, Brigade spokesperson Lt. Hassan Abdullahi reported that the notorious bandit leader Kachalla Bala, along with five other criminals, was neutralized on Friday, September 5.
Initiated on September 1, the operation has successfully targeted bandit activity, resulting in the neutralization of several bandits and the rescue of kidnapped individuals across various affected communities.
During these operations, troops recovered a cache of items, including five Dane guns, one motorcycle, two mobile phones, and an AK-47 magazine containing 20 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
Mr. Abdullahi further explained that these recoveries took place in Lokoja, Kabba-Bunu, and Yagba West Local Government Areas of Kogi.
Troops from the 126 Battalion, under the leadership of their commanding officer and supported by hybrid forces, engaged bandits near Tunga, resulting in the neutralization of two criminals during the confrontation.
Brig.-Gen. Kasim Sidi, the Brigade and Operation Accord III commander, personally oversaw the operations, which included destroying bandit camps, maintaining patrols, and executing ambushes to assert control in the area.
On September 2, an aerial combat mission was launched in Ankomi, successfully engaging fleeing bandits and neutralizing a significant number.
Subsequent clearance operations on September 3 in Aleke, Ungwan Soni, and Ungwan Nyaba led to the rescue of Pabo Suleiman and his two children, who had been kidnapped.
On September 5, troops successfully neutralized Mr. Bala and his five associates during an intense firefight at their hideout near Tunga.
Mr. Abdullahi emphasized the unwavering commitment of the troops to eliminate banditry and criminal activities in Kogi and surrounding regions, bolstered by support from command leadership.
He reiterated that Operation EGWUA A TITE II continues to achieve positive outcomes, with troops dedicated to restoring peace and security in the area.
(NAN)
