Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have neutralized three suspected kidnappers during a follow-up exploitation operation in Edimogbo and Obele forests in Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Security sources said the operation was conducted at about 7:30 a.m. on November 4, 2026, by troops of the 21 Battalion Quick Response Force (QRF), working alongside personnel of the Kogi State Vigilante Service (KSVS), Alloma.
The operation followed earlier raid and exploitation activities in the Edimogbo Forest, as troops continued efforts to track down and flush out suspected kidnappers operating in the area.
The sources said the troops searched from Edimogbo Forest towards the Obele Forest general area, where they eventually re-established contact with the fleeing criminals.
The suspected kidnappers reportedly attempted to escape after sighting the advancing troops but were overwhelmed by the soldiers’ superior firepower.
Three of the suspects were neutralised during the encounter.
Items recovered included four AK-47 rifles, 12 magazines, 336 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, three bandoliers and an identification card.
The troops expended 32 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition during the operation.
Security sources said troops were maintaining dominance of the general area, while their morale and fighting efficiency remained high.
The operation forms part of sustained efforts by OPWS to dismantle kidnapping networks and restore security in forested communities across Kogi State.
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