By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
In a decisive blow to criminal networks in Kogi State, troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade, operating under Operation ACCORD III, in collaboration with Other Hybrid Forces (OHF), have eliminated feared bandit warlord Babangida Kachala—a breakthrough military officials say will cripple bandit activity in the region.
Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, announced the operation in a statement on Friday, describing it as a major step in ongoing efforts to reclaim Kogi’s forests from armed gangs.
Babangida, long regarded as the ruthless second-in-command to notorious gang leader Kachala Shuaibu, had terrorized communities within Masalaci Boka and Ofere Forest, orchestrating kidnappings, robberies, and deadly ambushes.
The troops, acting on precise intelligence, laid a covert ambush on September 11 at a key crossing point within the Ofere–Ayetoro Gbede axis. As they withdrew, the soldiers encountered a surprise ambush from the criminals, sparking a fierce gun battle.
“Despite the surprise, our troops responded with superior firepower,” Abdullahi revealed. “In the exchange, one bandit was neutralized on the spot, while others fled with serious injuries.”
A sweep of the battlefield uncovered: A fully loaded magazine, 31 mobile phones believed stolen from victims, a blood pressure monitor, packs of Tramadol tablets, fetish charms and ₦16,000 cash
Blood trails suggested several wounded bandits escaped. Subsequent intelligence confirmed that Babangida Kachala was among the fleeing gunmen and later succumbed to his injuries.
Lt. Abdullahi praised the bravery and high morale of the troops, pledging that Operation ACCORD III will maintain relentless pressure.
“Our forces will continue aggressive patrols and ambushes to dismantle criminal networks. The Nigerian Army remains resolute in restoring lasting peace and security across Kogi State,” he affirmed.
The Army urged residents to share timely, credible information to help sustain recent gains against banditry, assuring communities that every report could save lives and strengthen security in the region.