Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation WHIRL STROKE have destroyed a suspected kidnappers’ camp in Edimogbo Forest, Igala-Mela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State, following intelligence on the criminals’ hideout.

Security sources said the operation was conducted at about 7:00 a.m. on October 2, 2026, by troops of the Quick Reaction Force (QRF) of 21 Battalion.

The sources said the troops received human intelligence indicating that suspected kidnappers were hibernating in the forest and immediately mobilised along the Ejule–Alloma–Ofabo route towards Edimogbo to neutralise the criminal elements.

However, upon approaching the suspected hideout, the criminals reportedly sighted the advancing troops and opened fire briefly to alert other members of the group.

The troops subsequently pursued the fleeing suspects into the forest and advanced towards their hideout but recorded no further contact with the criminals.

Despite the absence of further engagement, the troops successfully destroyed the suspected kidnappers’ existing camp during the operation.

Items recovered from the hideout included 1,000 rounds of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition, seven bandoliers, two shovels, one hand pump, one mobile phone and one Glo modem.

Other recovered items included two packets of soap, a jerrycan of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), pairs of shoes, clothing and six Daylong motorcycles.

The troops expended 25 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition during the operation.

Security sources said exploitation of the area was ongoing, while the troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remained high.

The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE to dismantle criminal hideouts, disrupt kidnapping networks and enhance security across their area of responsibility. (Zagazola)