Kogi Govt Intercepts Arms Cache, Foils Planned Retaliatory Attack by Criminals
By Temiloluwa Samuel
The Kogi State Government says a coordinated security operation has intercepted a large cache of arms and ammunition meant for criminal elements planning retaliatory attacks in the state.
In a press release signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, on June 22, 2026, the government said the operation was executed through synergy between Kogi local security operatives, Hybrid Forces under the Office of the National Security Adviser, and the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, acting on credible intelligence.
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According to the statement, security agencies tracked a Golf 2 vehicle suspected to be transporting weapons across state lines. After over two weeks of covert surveillance, three suspects were arrested in Sokoto State. The vehicle was later impounded in Kabba, Kabba-Bunu LGA.
Items recovered include: two AK-47 rifles, several AK-47 magazines, 67 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two pistols, 12 rounds of pistol ammunition, and military uniforms allegedly meant for criminal operations.
The government said intelligence showed the weapons were meant to replenish depleted stocks after security forces neutralized notorious bandit leader Kachalla Battijo on June 10, 2026, following his failed attempt to kidnap students of Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu.
“The interception validates the proactive security measures of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration and demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations,” Fanwo stated.
He commended the DSS, Nigerian Army, Hybrid Forces, and the Sokoto State Government for their collaboration. The government also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and NSA Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for strengthening sub-national security capacity.
The statement urged Kogi residents to remain vigilant and share credible information with security agencies, assuring that surveillance has been intensified across strategic locations.
“The interception sends a strong message that Kogi State is not and will never be a safe haven for terrorism, banditry, kidnapping or any form of criminality,” the government said.
End
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JUNE 23RD 2026)
