Operatives of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, have successfully eliminated two suspected bandits across the Kabba-Bunu and Lokoja local government areas in Kogi State.
The Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, disclosed this in a statement issued to newsmen on Sunday.
According to him, troops of Sector 3 of the JTF conducted the operation on Saturday, October 31, 2026, against suspected terrorists following an intelligence-led ambush along the Adankolo–Apata Road.
“Acting on the intelligence, troops laid an ambush at suspected bandits’ supply route. The troops subsequently made contact with the suspected criminals who were subdued and forced to flee,” the statement read.
It added: “At about 0900 hours on the same day during exploitation, troops received information regarding the discovery of suspected bandits’ bodies towards Adankolo Forest.
“On arrival at the location, troops found corpses of the two suspected bandits and recovered one locally made pistol, one cartridge and one empty case of 7.62mm special ammunition.”
Meanwhile, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE and General Officer Commanding 5 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information on suspicious activities, stressing that security remains everybody’s responsibility.
What You Should Know
This development highlights ongoing military efforts to curb criminal activities and banditry within Kogi State through intelligence-driven operations.
- Positive Impact: Enhanced security presence and aggressive pursuit of criminal elements help protect local communities from attacks and restore public confidence.
- Potential Concerns: Ongoing security engagements in these areas may cause temporary disruptions or heighted tension for residents living near forest corridors.
