Kogi state government has vowed to sustain its ongoing onslaught against criminal elements in the state.
According to a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, and made available to newsmen in Lokoja on Saturday, joint security operatives combed identified criminal hideouts in Ijumu, Kabba-Bunu, Mopamuro and Lokoja local government areas, all in Kogi West senatorial district.
Fanwo confirmed that the operations were conducted by a combined team of security agencies as part of a strategic crackdown on bandits and criminal elements threatening the peace and security of the state.
According to him, the joint forces reportedly engaged criminals in a fierce gun battle, inflicting heavy casualties on the bandits and disrupting their activities. However, the government also announced the loss of two operatives during the operation, describing them as courageous heroes who paid the ultimate price in defense of the people.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of these fallen heroes. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
“Several other operatives sustained injuries and are receiving medical attention with support from the state government,” the statement read.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the safety and security of every resident, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy toward criminality. He also assured that normalcy has been restored in the affected areas, with further operations underway to flush out remaining threats.
The state government called on community leaders and residents to support ongoing security efforts by providing credible intelligence, while also expressing appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and federal security agencies for their continued support.
As investor interest in Kogi grows, Fanwo stressed that the Ododo administration would spare no effort in ensuring the state remains safe and secure for all.
