Troops intercept terror suspects, recover ammunition in Kogi

Troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army deployed along Road Jamata–Owara in Lokoja Local Government Area intercepted a suspected terrorist logistics courier riding a motorcycle specially modified with a concealed compartment for the covert conveyance of ammunition.

Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, in a statement, said following the arrest of a high-profile terrorist ammunition courier, Mathew Elisha (alias Nasara), who had been on security watch lists, troops of the Brigade recorded another operational success by intercepting two suspected terrorists’ logistics couriers and recovering a large cache of ammunition in Kogi State.

According to the statement, “The operation which was conducted on 20 April 2026 followed credible intelligence on the movement of suspected terrorists’ logistics elements within the Brigade’s area of responsibility.”

Furthermore, troops deployed at Response Area Oshokoshoko mounted a snap checkpoint along Road Obajana–Kabba in Lokoja Local Government Area and intercepted a Toyota bus conveying the suspects from Makurdi to Obajana.

During the operation, a thorough search of the vehicle led to the arrest of two suspected terrorists’ logistics couriers identified as Mallam Zubairu Abubakar and Adamu Abubakar Abdullahi.
Further search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of a sack containing 314 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition and three AK-47 rifle magazines concealed behind the driver’s seat.

Other items recovered from the suspects include two mobile phones, one driver’s licence, one National Identification Number slip, and an identity card.

The suspects and recovered items have been handed over to 12 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation and necessary action.