Security Forces Dismantle Bandit Networks, Neutralise Scores in Kogi

Security forces have recorded a major breakthrough against banditry in Kogi State, with scores of suspected bandits neutralised and their criminal networks dismantled during a fresh joint operation involving the police and the military.

The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the development in a statement issued on Sunday by its spokesperson, William Aya. Although the exact locations of the operation were not disclosed for security reasons, the command said the offensive was part of an ongoing clampdown on criminal elements terrorising parts of the state.

According to Aya, the operation was executed by joint police and military formations, with critical support from the Nigeria Police Force Air Wing. He said precision air strikes played a key role in flushing bandits out of their hideouts and dislodging their operational networks.

“The ongoing onslaught against bandit operations in Kogi State by the joint police and military has yielded fruitful results. Bandits were flushed out, their networks dislodged, and scores were neutralised,” the statement read.

The police command described the operation as being carried out with “vigour, commitment, and utmost professionalism,” stressing that security agencies would sustain the pressure until criminal activities are significantly reduced across the state.

Residents were urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting anyone with gunshot wounds, suspicious injuries, or unusual behaviour to the nearest police station. The command also appealed for credible intelligence from members of the public, noting that security is a collective responsibility.

To strengthen public engagement, the police released control room numbers — 07038329084 and 08152195982 — for reporting suspicious movements anywhere in the state.

The latest operation comes amid rising security concerns in Kogi, where bandits have intensified attacks in recent months. Incidents have included attacks on churches, kidnappings, and sporadic gunfire in communities such as Zango in Lokoja, where four members of one family were abducted over the weekend.

Security agencies assured residents that efforts to restore peace and safety across Kogi State remain ongoing and uncompromising.