Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have killed two suspected bandits during a security operation in Kabba-Bunu and Lokoja Local Government Areas of Kogi State.
The operation followed intelligence reports about suspected criminal activities along the Adankolo–Apata Road.
The Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, confirmed the development in a statement issued to journalists on Sunday.
According to him, troops from Sector 3 of the task force carried out the operation on Saturday, October 31, 2026.
He explained that the soldiers mounted an ambush along a suspected supply route used by the armed group after receiving intelligence about their movements.
The troops later made contact with the suspected bandits and overpowered them, forcing the individuals to flee.
Troops Recover Pistol and Ammunition
Zubairu said the soldiers received information around 9:00 a.m. during a follow-up search that bodies suspected to belong to bandits had been discovered towards Adankolo Forest.
The troops proceeded to the location and found the bodies of two suspected bandits.
They also recovered one locally made pistol, a cartridge and an empty case of 7.62mm special ammunition.
The task force said the discoveries followed the encounter between the troops and the suspected criminals during the intelligence-led operation.
Commander Calls for Public Support
The Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE and General Officer Commanding 5 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, urged residents to continue supporting security agencies.
He called on members of the public to provide timely and credible information about suspicious movements and activities in their communities.
Gara stressed that public cooperation remains important to security operations and the protection of lives and property.
The military urged residents to remain alert and assist security agencies with useful information that could help prevent criminal activities.