Military Crushes Bandit Enclaves, Rescues Victims in Kwara State Offensive

​ILORIN, Nigeria – In a decisive blow against criminal elements, the Nigerian Army has successfully dismantled several terrorist hideouts and logistics bases across Kwara State. The week-long offensive, tagged Operation IGBO DANU (Operation Forest Flush), resulted in the neutralization of several bandits and the rescue of numerous kidnap victims.

​The operation, which took place between January 23 and 29, 2026, was carried out by troops of the 22 Armoured Brigade under the 2 Division Nigerian Army. Supported by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the mission targeted deep forest enclaves that had previously been inaccessible to security forces.

​Crushing the Logistics Chain

​A major breakthrough occurred in the Ifelodun Local Government Area, where troops overran Garin Dandi, a notorious bandit stronghold. The military confirmed the total destruction of logistics bases and supply systems, effectively cutting off the “sustainment capability” of the brigands.

​According to a statement issued on Saturday by Captain Maureen Ogbuka on behalf of the 2 Division Army Public Relations, the offensive was led by Major General Chinedu Nnebife, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, and Brigadier General Nicholas Rume, Commander of the 22 Brigade.

​”The hideouts and camps were completely destroyed, leaving the brigands dislodged. Despite the difficult and restrictive terrain, troops maintained an aggressive posture, effectively denying the bandits freedom of movement,” the statement read.

​Rescue and Arrests

​Beyond dismantling infrastructure, the operation yielded significant human impacts:

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• ​Victim Rescue: Numerous individuals held captive in various forest camps were liberated during the raids.

• ​Neutralization: At least one terrorist was confirmed killed, while many others fled with severe gunshot wounds.

• ​Interceptions: Troops established blocking positions along known escape routes, leading to the arrest of several fleeing suspects.

​The Challenge of Informants

​The military noted that while the operation was successful, it faced challenges from local collaborators. Investigations revealed that some community members provide intelligence to bandits, allowing them to withdraw just before troops arrive.

​Major General Nnebife has urged the public to remain vigilant and provide timely, credible information to help root out these collaborators and ensure the total restoration of security in Kwara State.