By Bavoriat Clara
Troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have intensified operations against terrorist elements, successfully disrupting logistics supply routes and intercepting suspected couriers conveying ammunition in Kogi State. The operations, conducted over a three-month period, were driven by sustained intelligence efforts aimed at dismantling terrorist support networks within the Brigade’s area of responsibility.
In a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, who highlighted a series of coordinated operations targeting terrorist logistics chains. In one such operation on 29 March 2026, troops deployed along the Jamata–Owara Road in Lokoja Local Government Area intercepted a suspected courier riding a motorcycle. A detailed search revealed that the motorcycle had been specially modified with a concealed compartment designed for the covert transportation of ammunition. Preliminary investigations established links between the suspect and known terrorist elements, prompting follow-up operations.
Building on that success, troops earlier apprehended a high-profile ammunition courier, Mathew Elisha, also known as Nasara, who had been on security watch lists. Acting on credible intelligence, troops recorded another major breakthrough on 20 April 2026 by intercepting two additional suspected terrorist logistics couriers and recovering a large cache of ammunition.
The operation was executed at a snap checkpoint mounted at Response Area Oshokoshoko along the Obajana–Kabba Road in Lokoja Local Government Area. Troops intercepted a Toyota bus conveying the suspects from Makurdi to Obajana. A thorough search of the vehicle led to the arrest of the suspects, identified as Mallam Zubairu Abubakar and Adamu Abubakar Abdullahi.
Further inspection of the vehicle uncovered a sack containing 314 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition and three AK-47 rifle magazines concealed behind the driver’s seat. Additional items recovered include two mobile phones, a driver’s licence, a National Identification Number slip, and an identity card.
The suspects, along with the recovered items, have been handed over to the 12 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation and necessary action.
The Nigerian Army says the operation underscores the vigilance and proactive posture of its troops in denying terrorists freedom of movement and disrupting their logistics networks within the operational environment.
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