KOGI INTERCEPTS CACHE OF ARMS, THWARTS PLANNED RETALIATORY ATTACK BY CRIMINAL NETWORKS

KOGI INTERCEPTS CACHE OF ARMS, THWARTS PLANNED RETALIATORY ATTACK BY CRIMINAL NETWORKS

Three Suspects Arrested as Security Operatives Recover AK-47 Rifles, Ammunition, Pistols and Military Uniforms

Lokoja, Kogi State

The Kogi State Government has announced the successful interception of a cache of arms and ammunition believed to have been destined for criminal elements seeking to destabilize the peace and security of the state.

The operation, which represents a significant breakthrough in ongoing security efforts, was achieved through effective collaboration among local security operatives within the Kogi State security architecture, the Hybrid Forces operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army.

According to preliminary intelligence reports, security operatives received credible information regarding the movement of arms and ammunition intended for delivery to criminal elements operating within and around Kogi State. The intelligence specifically identified a Golf 2 vehicle allegedly being used to transport the weapons.

Acting swiftly on the intelligence, security agencies coordinated operations across state boundaries and, in partnership with the Sokoto State Government and security agencies in the state, tracked the movement of the suspects while maintaining covert surveillance over their activities.

The operation culminated in the arrest of three suspects in Sokoto State after more than two weeks of sustained surveillance. Preliminary investigations have already yielded valuable intelligence, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the arms trafficking syndicate.

Building on intelligence gathered from the arrests, security operatives successfully intercepted the cache of arms and ammunition intended for criminal elements in Kogi State. The Golf 2 vehicle used in transporting the weapons was subsequently impounded in Kabba, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area.

Items recovered during the operation include:

Two AK-47 rifles

Several AK-47 magazines

Sixty-seven rounds of 7.62mm ammunition

Two pistols

Twelve rounds of pistol ammunition

Military uniforms suspected to have been intended for criminal operations

Weapons Meant to Replenish Criminal Stockpile

Security intelligence indicates that the intercepted weapons were part of efforts by criminal elements to replenish their depleted stock of arms following major operational setbacks in recent weeks, particularly after the neutralisation of notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Battijo, on June 10, 2026, following his failed attempt to kidnap students of Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu.

Anticipating possible retaliatory attacks and attempts by fleeing criminals to regroup and rearm, the Kogi State Government intensified intelligence-gathering operations, expanded its surveillance network, and strengthened collaboration with security agencies across the country.

Available intelligence suggests that criminal elements trapped in forest locations across parts of the state have suffered severe operational losses and are experiencing acute shortages of weapons and ammunition due to sustained security pressure.

The government noted that these criminal groups have been making desperate attempts to replenish their stockpiles in a bid to resist ongoing security operations. However, through proactive intelligence-led measures, the state was able to intercept the arms consignment before it reached its intended destination.

Governor Ododo's Security Strategy Yielding Results

The successful operation underscores the effectiveness of the proactive security measures implemented by the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and highlights the growing impact of intelligence-driven security operations in combating crime and insecurity.

The Kogi State Government commended local security forces, the Hybrid Forces under ONSA, the DSS, and personnel of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army for their professionalism, vigilance, and seamless coordination throughout the operation.

Special appreciation was also extended to the Sokoto State Government, security agencies in Sokoto State, and all stakeholders whose cooperation and prompt response contributed to the success of the operation.

Commendation for National Security Leadership

The Government further praised the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his strategic leadership and commitment to strengthening Nigeria's security architecture. It also acknowledged the heads of security agencies nationwide for their continued support and dedication to safeguarding lives and property.

The administration equally commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for enhancing the capacities of sub-national governments and security institutions, noting that federal support has been instrumental in the security gains recorded across Kogi State.

Strong Warning to Criminal Networks

The interception of the arms cache sends a clear message that Kogi State remains hostile territory for terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and all forms of criminal enterprises.

The Government emphasized that criminal elements operating within and around the state should understand that security forces are closing in on them and that every attempt to evade justice will be met with even greater determination.

While investigations continue, residents have been assured that there is no cause for alarm, as security agencies have intensified surveillance and operations across strategic locations to guarantee public safety.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo's administration remains committed to deploying every lawful means—including intelligence gathering, technological support, community engagement, and inter-agency collaboration—to sustain and deepen the gains recorded in the fight against insecurity.

The Government urged citizens to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, stressing that collective vigilance remains critical to preserving the peace, security, and prosperity of Kogi State.