PICTORIAL: Troops Overrun Terrorist Camp, Recover Arms In Kogi

Troops of the Nigerian Army have overrun a terrorist camp in Kogi State and recovered arms and ammunition during a successful operation carried out under Operation IGBO IDANU I, the Army said on Wednesday.

In a statement shared on its official Facebook handle, the Army said troops of 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, overran a key terrorist camp linked to notorious bandit kingpins Kachalla Ibrahim and Shu’aibu, recovering a cache of arms and ammunition.

According to the Army, the troops advanced through “dense forest, difficult terrain and multiple riverine obstacles,” displaying what it described as “exceptional resilience, professionalism and tactical discipline” despite severe movement challenges.

“Despite severe movement constraints caused by fallen trees and marshy ground, the force pressed forward with determination, highlighting the unflinching resolve of the Nigerian Army to dismantle terrorist strongholds and restore lasting security in the area,” the statement read.

The operation was personally led by the Commander, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, and involved troops dismounting and advancing on foot to achieve tactical surprise.

“The operation involved troops dismounting and advancing on foot to achieve tactical surprise and operational dominance. This bold manoeuvre enabled the force to penetrate deep into the terrorist enclave, resulting in the complete overrun of the camp,” the Army said.

Although the terrorists reportedly fled on sighting the advancing troops, the Army said a detailed exploitation of the camp led to the recovery of “significant quantities of arms and ammunition.”

Items recovered included eight boxes of 7.62 x 54 link ammunition, each containing bandoliers of 250 rounds, as well as one box of high-velocity grenades.

“These recoveries have significantly degraded the terrorists’ operational capability and logistics base,” the Army added.

Following the successful clearance, the Army said the camp was “systematically destroyed and set ablaze” to prevent the criminals from returning.

“Following the successful clearance operation, the terrorist camp was systematically destroyed and set ablaze to deny the criminals any opportunity of reoccupation,” the statement said.

The Army noted that troops have continued aggressive patrols and sustained offensive operations within the general area to exploit the success, disrupt fleeing elements and prevent regrouping.

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

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