Kogi Intercepts Arms Cache, Foils Planned Retaliatory Attack by Criminal Network

The Kogi State Government has announced the interception of a large cache of arms and ammunition allegedly destined for criminal groups planning retaliatory attacks within the state, in what authorities described as a major security breakthrough.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the operation was carried out through a coordinated effort involving local security operatives under the Kogi State security architecture, the Hybrid Forces operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army.

The government said security agencies acted on credible intelligence regarding the movement of arms and ammunition intended for criminal elements operating within and around Kogi State. Intelligence reports identified a Volkswagen Golf 2 vehicle allegedly being used to transport the weapons.

Security operatives subsequently coordinated efforts across state boundaries and worked closely with the Sokoto State Government and security agencies in the state to track the suspects and their vehicle. The operation culminated in the arrest of three suspects in Sokoto State after more than two weeks of covert surveillance. Authorities said investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the suspected arms trafficking network.

Acting on intelligence gathered during the operation, security personnel intercepted the weapons consignment and impounded the vehicle in Kabba, headquarters of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State. Recovered items included two AK-47 rifles, several AK-47 magazines, 67 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two pistols, 12 rounds of pistol ammunition, and military uniforms suspected to have been intended for criminal operations.

The state government disclosed that intelligence reports linked the weapons to efforts by criminal groups seeking to replenish their depleted stockpile following recent security operations that significantly weakened their activities. Authorities specifically referenced the June 10 neutralisation of notorious bandit leader Kachalla Battijo after a failed attempt to abduct students of Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu.

Fanwo said the government had anticipated possible retaliatory attacks and attempts by fleeing criminal elements to regroup and rearm. As a result, security agencies intensified intelligence gathering, expanded surveillance operations, and strengthened collaboration with security institutions across the country.

The government commended the efforts of local security forces, the Hybrid Forces under ONSA, the DSS, and personnel of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade for their professionalism and coordination. It also acknowledged the support of the Sokoto State Government and security agencies in the state for their role in the successful operation.

Assuring residents that there was no cause for alarm, the government said security agencies had intensified surveillance across strategic locations to sustain ongoing gains in the fight against insecurity. Citizens were urged to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies to support efforts aimed at preserving peace and security in the state.