The Kogi State Police Command, in joint operations with the Nigerian Army, has intensified bush-combing operations in forests along the Kogi–Edo border following a kidnapping incident on the Okene–Auchi Road.
The operation, which began following the attack, targets identified forest corridors around the Okene–Ajaokuta axis, particularly the Ebiya Forest.
A statement by the Spokesperson of the Command, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat disclosed that the operation involves personnel from the Okene Area Command, 77 PMF Squadron, Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Violent Crime Response Unit, and army detachments from local Forward Operating Bases, with technical support from the Edo State Police Command.
During initial clearance operations, security forces raided and dismantled several criminal hideouts within the forest, recovering food items, an Army-pattern jungle hat, and a National Identity Card left behind by the suspects. The camps were subsequently set ablaze.
Although no victims were rescued in the initial phase, tactical teams—supported by military and police surveillance drones—advanced further into the Ajaokuta and Adoko axes on Saturday, August 8.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, directed operational teams to sustain the search until all victims are rescued and the perpetrators arrested.
He called on residents in the affected areas to remain calm and provide credible information to assist security agencies.
