The Nigerian Army says its troops have overrun a suspected militant camp in central Kogi State, recovering ammunition and grenades in an operation described by military authorities as a significant setback for armed groups operating in the area.
In a statement detailing the mission, the Army said soldiers from the 12 Brigade carried out the operation under the codename “Operation IGBO IDANU I,” targeting a network allegedly linked to individuals identified as Kachalla Ibrahim and Shu’aibu.
According to the military, troops advanced through dense forest and riverine terrain to reach the camp, overcoming what it described as difficult environmental conditions, including marshland and blocked access routes caused by fallen trees.
The operation was led by Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, Commander of the 12 Brigade, the Army said. Troops reportedly dismounted and proceeded on foot to approach the site, a move the military said was aimed at achieving tactical surprise.
The Army stated that suspected militants fled upon sighting the advancing soldiers. No casualties were reported in the statement. Following what it described as a sweep of the area, troops recovered eight boxes of 7.62 x 54mm linked ammunition—each said to contain 250-round bandoliers—and one box of high-velocity grenades.
Military authorities said the camp was subsequently destroyed to prevent its reuse, and that follow-up patrols and clearance operations are ongoing to track fleeing suspects and prevent regrouping.
Kogi State, located in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, has experienced security challenges in recent years, including activities attributed to armed criminal groups and militant networks operating across forested and rural communities.
The Nigerian Army said the operation underscores its commitment to dismantling armed groups and restoring security in affected areas. Independent verification of the operation’s outcome was not immediately available.
