Army destroys kidnappers’ camp in Kogi

Troops of the Nigerian Army have destroyed a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in a Kogi forest, recovering 1,000 rounds of ammunition and six motorcycles during an offensive operation.

The operation was carried out by troops of the 21 Battalion Quick Reaction Force in Edimogbo Forest, Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of the state.

The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, disclosed this on Monday, saying the operation followed credible intelligence indicating that suspected kidnappers were using the forest as a hideout.

She said the troops mobilised to the location and came under fire as they approached the camp, prompting the suspected criminals to flee deeper into the forest.

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“On approaching the hideout, the suspected kidnappers, on sighting the advancing troops, fired a shot to alert other members of the group before fleeing deeper into the forest.

“The troops immediately pursued the fleeing criminals deep into the forest, but no contact was made. The troops, however, destroyed the criminal camp, including all supportive structures,” Anele said.

Items recovered from the hideout included 1,000 rounds of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition, seven bandoliers, two shovels, a hand pump, a mobile phone and a Glo modem.

The troops also recovered two packets of soap, a jerrycan of Premium Motor Spirit, clothing, pairs of shoes and six motorcycles.

Anele said the military had continued to search the surrounding areas to track down the fleeing suspects.

“Exploitation of the general area is still ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects,” the statement read.