The Kogi State Police Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, local hunters, and vigilante groups, has continued its coordinated bush-combing operations across various parts of the state.
In the course of the operation, eight suspects were arrested at different points for questioning in connection with suspected criminal activities.
Preliminary investigations indicated that some of the suspects are informants aiding kidnapping syndicates operating within the area.
Kogi State Police Command Spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, said the suspects are currently in custody, and thorough investigations are ongoing, after which appropriate legal action will be taken based on the outcome of investigations.
In a statement on Thursday, ASP Saliu explained that the operation forms part of continuous, intelligence-led security measures routinely conducted across different locations in Kogi State to proactively detect, disrupt, and dismantle criminal networks.
According to her, the exercise involved thorough combing of identified forested and remote areas suspected to be vulnerable to criminal exploitation.
The police spokesperson revealed that suspected criminal elements fled their enclaves, abandoning several hideout locations after being overwhelmed by the coordinated presence and superior deployment of security forces.
“Discovered bandit camps and hideouts were neutralised to prevent reuse and deny criminal elements any operational comfort.
“Ground operations were effectively complemented with aerial surveillance, providing enhanced situational awareness, tracking of suspicious movements, and the identification of concealed criminal hideouts.
“The areas covered during the operation have since remained calm and stable, with sustained and visible security presence to reassure residents and forestall any breach of peace,” she confirmed.
The Kogi State Police Command reiterated that these joint security operations are continuous, deliberate, and statewide, forming part of a comprehensive and proactive security architecture designed to keep criminal elements constantly unsettled until they are completely dismantled.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Kankarofi, assured the people of Kogi State of the Command’s firm control of the security situation and its unwavering resolve to protect lives and property.
