Security forces destroy 3 bandits’ camp in Kogi, rescue victims – Fanwo

By Stephen Adeleye

Three major camps under the control of notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Babangida in Kogi West senatorial district have been destroyed in a joint operation involving Nigerian security agencies and local vigilantes.

The operation involved operatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, Department of State Services, and local vigilantes, Kogi Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr Kingsley Fanwo, said in a statement in Lokoja.

According to Fanwo, the operation, supported by air strikes and ground engagements, neutralised scores of bandits, leading to rescue of kidnapped victims.

“Notorious bandit leader Kachalla Babangida’s camps were attacked with superior firepower, neutralising scores of bandits through coordinated air strikes and ground engagements.

“The camps were destroyed, and previously held kidnap victims were rescued,” Fanwo said.

He said the Kogi Government has moved the rescued victims to medical facilities for treatment and will later transfer them to IDP camps before reuniting them with their families.

He noted that the State Security Adviser, Cdr Jerry Omodara (rtd), praised the officers’ bravery and assured continued government support in eliminating banditry and terrorism.

He said the Kogi government will not disclose further details on camp locations, neutralised bandits and rescued victims for security reasons.

The Kogi Government thanks President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to curbing banditry and terrorism.

The state also commends security agencies and local hunters for their dedication.

He said that Gov. Ahmed Ododo remains committed to ensuring Kogi is safe, sparing no resources to achieve this goal,” Fanwo said.

(NAN)