Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have recorded a significant operational breakthrough under Operation IGBO IDANU I, successfully clearing a major terrorist camp in Kogi State and recovering a cache of arms and ammunition.

In a statement released on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Wednesday, the Army described the mission as a decisive strategic strike against a notorious terrorist network linked to Kachalla Ibrahim and Shu’aibu. The operation was personally led by the Commander of 12 Brigade, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi.

According to the statement, the troops navigated dense forests, challenging terrain, and multiple riverine obstacles, demonstrating exceptional resilience, professionalism, and tactical discipline. Despite severe movement constraints caused by fallen trees and marshy ground, the soldiers pressed forward with determination.

To achieve tactical surprise and operational dominance, the troops dismounted and advanced on foot, enabling them to penetrate deep into the terrorist enclave. Although the terrorists fled upon sighting the advancing forces, the Army said a thorough exploitation of the objective led to the recovery of significant quantities of arms and ammunition.

Items recovered include eight boxes of 7.62 x 54 link ammunition, each containing bandoliers of 250 rounds, as well as one box of high-velocity grenades. The Army noted that the seizure has significantly degraded the terrorists’ operational capability and logistics network.

Following the clearance operation, the camp was systematically destroyed and set ablaze to prevent any possibility of reoccupation. Troops have since intensified aggressive patrols and offensive operations in the surrounding areas to disrupt fleeing elements and forestall any attempt at regrouping.

The Army reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, stating that the operation sends a clear and resounding message that terrorist hideouts will continue to be identified and neutralised to ensure lasting peace and security in the region.