Security operatives have intercepted a cache of arms and ammunition allegedly destined for criminal networks operating within and around the state.
In a statement issued on Monday, Kingsley Fanwo, Kogi state commissioner for information, said the operation was carried out through collaboration among local security operatives, Hybrid Forces under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army.
Fanwo said the operation followed credible intelligence on the movement of weapons intended for criminal elements seeking to undermine security in the state.
According to him, intelligence reports identified a Golf 2 vehicle allegedly being used to transport the weapons.
The commissioner said security agencies coordinated efforts across state boundaries and worked with the Sokoto state government and security agencies to track the movement of the suspects.
He said the operation led to the arrest of three suspects in Sokoto state after more than two weeks of covert surveillance.
Fanwo added that preliminary investigations had yielded useful intelligence while efforts were ongoing to apprehend other members of the alleged arms trafficking syndicate.
Acting on intelligence obtained during the operation, security operatives intercepted the weapons and later impounded the vehicle in Kabba, Kabba-Bunu LGA of Kogi state.
According to the commissioner, items recovered during the operation include two AK-47 rifles, several AK-47 magazines, 67 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two pistols, 12 rounds of pistol ammunition and military uniforms.
Fanwo said intelligence reports indicated that the weapons were allegedly meant to replenish the stockpile of criminal groups operating in parts of the state.
He linked the development to recent security operations that reportedly weakened criminal networks, including the killing of Kachalla Battijo, a suspected bandit leader, on June 10.
The commissioner said the state government had anticipated attempts by fleeing criminals to regroup and rearm, prompting intensified intelligence gathering and surveillance operations.
According to him, intelligence suggested that criminal groups hiding in forest areas of the state were facing shortages of arms and ammunition following sustained security operations.
“The successful interception of this arms consignment demonstrates that the Kogi State Government remains ahead of criminal networks and committed to denying them the resources needed to threaten the peace and security of our people,” Fanwo said.
He commended local security operatives, the Hybrid Forces under ONSA, the Department of State Services (DSS), and personnel of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army for their roles in the operation.
Fanwo said the operation sends a clear message that Kogi will not serve as a safe haven for terrorism, banditry, kidnapping or other criminal activities.
He assured residents that security agencies had intensified surveillance across strategic locations and urged citizens to continue providing credible information to security authorities.
