Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
In a coordinated security operation on March 28, 2026, troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade arrested three individuals suspected of collaborating with criminal and terrorist elements during a raid in Oshokoshoko village, Kabba‑Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State. The operation was part of the military’s ongoing effort under Operation MESA to dismantle support networks that enable kidnappings, armed attacks, and terror activities in vulnerable rural communities.
The raid, which began around 2:00 p.m., involved soldiers stationed at the Apamaru patrol base working closely with local vigilante groups. The collaboration aimed to combine intelligence from residents familiar with the area with military capabilities to target and apprehend individuals believed to be aiding criminal groups.
Two of the suspects were initially detained for allegedly providing sensitive information on troop movements to a notorious terrorist network operating in the region. Authorities say this kind of intelligence can be used by criminal groups to plan attacks, ambush security personnel, or evade law enforcement operations, making the apprehension of such collaborators critical to maintaining safety in the area.
A third suspect was later arrested after further searches of the village and surrounding areas. Security officials indicate that this individual is suspected of facilitating ransom payments from families of kidnapping victims to criminal networks, effectively enabling abductions and extending the operational reach of outlawed groups.
All three suspects are currently in military custody and are undergoing detailed interrogation and investigation by defence intelligence units. The inquiry is expected to determine the full extent of their involvement, identify any additional collaborators, and guide the next steps for legal or security action against them.
This raid reflects the Nigerian Army’s broader strategy in Kogi State and its environs to disrupt networks that sustain criminal activity and terrorism. In recent weeks, the 12 Brigade has conducted multiple operations across Kabba‑Bunu and neighbouring areas, including patrols and ambushes aimed at curbing kidnappings, armed robberies, and other violent acts in rural communities. Military sources emphasize that targeting suspected collaborators is essential for weakening the capacity of criminal networks and safeguarding civilians.
Local residents and community leaders have welcomed the arrests, describing them as a positive step toward enhancing security in villages that have long faced threats from kidnappers and armed groups. Many residents report that the presence of these networks has restricted farming, trading, and daily economic activity, leaving communities vulnerable to attacks.
Civil society groups and security analysts have stressed the importance of continued operations like this raid, coupled with transparent communication from authorities. They note that sustained military engagement, combined with intelligence sharing and community involvement, is necessary to ensure that gains from such actions are maintained and expanded.
The Nigerian Army has not yet released a formal statement regarding the strategic implications of the operation or the identities of the suspects. Meanwhile, Operation MESA continues across the state as part of wider efforts to restore safety and stability in rural Kogi communities affected by kidnappings and insurgent activity. Authorities have assured that further updates will be provided as investigations progress and as measures are taken to dismantle criminal support networks in the region.
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