Army Deploys Full Brigade to Rout Kidnappers from Kwara Forests

In a decisive move to restore peace in Kwara State, the Nigerian Army headquarters has deployed a full brigade accompanied by heavy military equipment across strategic communities in Kwara South. Troops have been actively patrolling areas in Ifelodun, Edu, and Patigi Local Government Areas, targeting dense forest hideouts used by kidnappers for launching attacks and abductions.

The operation, which is an integral part of the ongoing security initiative known as Operation Fasan Yanma, has seen soldiers navigating through communities such as Oke Ode and Babanla within Ifelodun LGA, extending their reach to cover Edu and Patigi. These efforts are aimed at dismantling the criminal networks terrorizing residents and ensuring the safety of all citizens in these regions.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who engaged with President Bola Tinubu on the matter during a recent visit to Jos, expressed profound appreciation for the federal government’s steadfast support. In a statement released on Wednesday, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to backing the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), the police, and other security agencies with all available resources to reinforce security measures across the state.

“We are fully committed to supporting the security agencies in their mission to safeguard lives and properties. This operation is crucial, and we are optimistic that under the leadership of Brigadier General A.A. Babatunde, the military will successfully eliminate the kidnapping menace from our forests,” Governor AbdulRazaq said.

He also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Army Staff, and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2nd Division, emphasizing the collaborative effort to restore peace. Recent coordinated strikes have led to the arrest of suspected kidnappers and the rescue of kidnapping victims, reinforcing the effectiveness of these military interventions.

ADVERTISEMENT

As the operation intensifies, residents of Kwara South are urged to remain vigilant and limit movement to essential activities to avoid unintended casualties. The state government and security agencies continue to urge the public to provide credible intelligence to aid ongoing efforts in eradicating criminal elements from the state’s forests.

The commitment of both state and federal authorities signals a relentless pursuit to restore order and create an environment conducive for peaceful living in Kwara State.