Troops of the Nigerian Army have destroyed a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in Edimogbo Forest, Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State, recovering 1,000 rounds of ammunition, motorcycles and other items.
In a statement Acting Director, Army Public Relations Colonel Appolonia Anele said the operation was conducted by troops of the 21 Battalion Quick Reaction Force (QRF) following credible human intelligence indicating the presence of suspected kidnappers in the forest.
According to the Army, the troops swiftly mobilised to the location but came under the attention of the suspected criminals, who fired a shot to alert other members of the group before fleeing deeper into the forest.
The troops pursued the fleeing suspects but did not make contact with them. They subsequently destroyed the criminal camp, including its supporting structures.
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, a Glo modem, two packets of soap, a jerrycan of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), clothing, shoes and six motorcycles.
The Army said troops were continuing to search the surrounding areas in efforts to track down the fleeing suspects.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustained offensive operations against kidnappers and other criminal elements threatening the safety and security of citizens.
It also urged members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to support efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the country.
