PICTORIAL: Troops overrun terrorist camp, seizes arms in Kogi

Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully overrun a terrorist camp in Kogi State, recovering a significant cache of arms and ammunition, the Army announced on Wednesday. The operation was conducted under Operation IGBO IDANU I.

In a statement on its official Facebook page, the Army said soldiers of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, dismantled a key camp linked to notorious bandit kingpins Kachalla Ibrahim and Shu’aibu.

The troops navigated dense forests, challenging terrain, and multiple riverine obstacles, demonstrating “exceptional resilience, professionalism and tactical discipline” despite the difficulties.

The operation was personally led by Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, Commander of 12 Brigade. Troops dismounted and advanced on foot to achieve tactical surprise, allowing them to penetrate deep into the terrorist enclave and completely overrun the camp.

Although the terrorists reportedly fled upon sighting the advancing troops, a thorough search of the camp led to the recovery of eight boxes of 7.62 x 54 link ammunition (each containing 250 rounds) and one box of high-velocity grenades. The Army noted that these recoveries have “significantly degraded the terrorists’ operational capability and logistics base.”

Following the operation, the camp was systematically destroyed and set ablaze to prevent reoccupation by the criminals. The Army also said troops have maintained aggressive patrols in the area to exploit the success, disrupt fleeing elements, and prevent regrouping.

“This operation sends a clear message to terrorist elements that their hideouts will continually be identified and neutralised,” the Army said, reaffirming its commitment to “safeguarding lives, protecting communities, and ensuring lasting peace and security across the region.”