Troops destroy kidnappers’ camp, recover 1,000 rounds of ammunition in Kogi

Troops of the Nigerian Army have destroyed a suspected kidnappers’ camp and recovered 1,000 rounds of ammunition during a raid in Edimogbo Forest, Kogi.

AN operational report made available to our reporter in Abuja on Monday, said the operation was conducted by troops of 21 Battalion, Quick Reaction Force (QRF), under Operation Whirl Stroke, Sector 3.

The report said the operation followed intelligence on the presence of suspected kidnappers in the forest, adding that the troops mobilised to the location through Ejule, Alloma and Ofabo on Monday.

It said the suspected kidnappers sighted the advancing troops and fired a shot to alert other members of the gang before fleeing into the forest.

According to the report, troops pursued the fleeing suspects and advanced to their hideout but made no further contact with them.

The report said the troops subsequently destroyed the gang’s camp and recovered 1,000 rounds of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition, seven bandoliers, two shovels and a hand pump.

Other items recovered, according to the report, include a mobile phone, a Glo modem, two packets of soap, a jerrycan of petrol, shoes, clothes and six Daylong motorcycles.

It said troops expended 25 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition during the operation, while exploitation of the area continued.

The report added that the morale and fighting efficiency of the troops remained high.