Troops Kill Terror Suspect, Recover AK-47 Rifles, Cash in Kogi Forest Ambush Operation

A fresh military offensive in Kogi State has led to the killing of a suspected terrorist and the recovery of multiple weapons and logistics items during a coordinated ambush in Adankolo Forest Reserve, Lokoja.

The operation was carried out by troops of the Nigerian Army under “Operation Tiger Paw II”, a security mission targeting criminal groups operating across key routes and forest corridors in the state.

Military officials said the ambush followed credible intelligence on the movement of suspected armed groups within the forest reserve, prompting troops to set up a tactical position along a known crossing point.

According to the Brigade spokesperson, Hassan Abdullahi, the soldiers engaged the suspects in a gunfight after contact was made, leading to the neutralisation of one suspect while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

A mop-up operation in the area later resulted in the recovery of weapons, ammunition and other items believed to have been used by the criminal group.

Recovered items include two AK-47 rifles, a locally fabricated pistol, six magazines and 145 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, alongside a camouflage bandolier and a motorcycle.

Troops also recovered mobile phones, power banks, medication and cash estimated at ₦62,900, suggesting the suspects may have been operating a mobile and coordinated network.

The army said the operation is part of ongoing efforts to deny criminal elements freedom of movement across Kogi State, particularly along strategic routes linking communities and neighbouring regions.

Security operations have been intensified across surrounding forest areas as troops continue combing the region to track fleeing suspects and dismantle remaining hideouts.

Authorities say similar operations have recently been conducted around Obajana and Agbaja forest areas as part of a broader push to weaken armed groups operating in central Nigeria.