Troops Intercept Terrorists’ Couriers, Seize Ammunition In Kogi

Troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have disrupted suspected terrorist supply routes in Kogi State, intercepting logistics couriers and recovering a significant cache of ammunition in a series of operations spanning three months.

According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, posted on the Nigerian Army’s verified Facebook page on Monday,  the operations were part of intensified, intelligence-driven efforts aimed at dismantling terrorist logistics networks within the brigade’s area of responsibility.

In one of the operations conducted on March 29, 2026, troops deployed along the Jamata–Owara road in Lokoja Local Government Area of the State intercepted a suspected logistics courier riding a motorcycle. A search of the motorcycle revealed it had been specially modified with a concealed compartment for the covert transportation of ammunition.

“Preliminary findings further established links between the suspect and known terrorist elements, leading to follow-on operations,” Lt. Abdullahi said.

The Army also confirmed the earlier arrest of a high-profile ammunition courier, Mathew Elisha, also known as Nasara, who had been on security watch list.

Building on that breakthrough, troops carried out another operation on Monday,  April 20, 2026, following credible intelligence on the movement of suspected terrorist logistics operatives.

Acting on the intelligence, soldiers mounted a snap checkpoint at Oshokoshoko along the Obajana–Kabba road in Lokoja LGA, where they intercepted a Toyota bus travelling from Makurdi to Obajana.

A thorough search of the vehicle led to the arrest of two suspected couriers identified as Mallam Zubairu Abubakar and Adamu Abubakar Abdullahi.

“Further search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of a sack containing 314 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition… and three AK-47 rifle magazines concealed behind the driver’s seat,” the statement noted.

Other items recovered from the suspects included two mobile phones, a driver’s licence, a National Identification Number. (NIN) slip, and an identity card.

The Brigade spokesperson said the suspects and recovered items have been handed over to the 12 Military Intelligence Regiment for further investigation and necessary action.

He added that the successful operations highlighted “the vigilance and proactive posture of troops in denying terrorists freedom of movement and disrupting their logistics network within the operational environment.”