The Nigerian Army said bandits terrorising communities in Kwara were given a bloody nose by troops, denying reports that they were overrun.
It said 148 Battalion (Rear) that is conducting clearance operations across Kogi and Kwara States have continued to record significant successes against the criminals.
The clarification comes amid recent reports on social media alleging that bandits overran troops in Kwara and seized weapons and ammunition.
Spokesperson of 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Polycarp Okoye, dismissed the report, in a statement on Monday, stating that the reverse was the case.
He said: “Contrary to the sensational claims, troops of 148 Battalion (Rear) conducting ongoing clearance operations across Kogi and Kwara States have continued to record significant operational successes.
“In a recent engagement, the troops mounted a strong blocking position along the Kwara–Ekiti border axis, where they neutralized two armed bandits and recovered two brand new AK-47 rifles.
“At no time were Army positions overrun, nor was any cache of weapons or ammunition lost to criminal elements, as mischievously reported by the online platform.
“The publication is a fabrication designed to mislead the public and undermine the morale of gallant troops diligently working to restore peace and stability in the region.”
A military source had revealed to The Nation yesterday how the Nigerian Army in collaboration with sister services and security agencies eliminated a wanted terrorist kingpin, Kachalla Maidawa, and 11 of his foot soldiers, in the ongoing onslaughts against bandits/terrorists in Kogi and Kwara States.
The source revealed that some weapons and ammunition were recovered from the terrorists after the operation, adding that troops continued to pursue the criminals into their enclaves.
Lt.-Col. Okoye reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to deal ‘decisively’ with criminals across the country.
He urged Nigerians to disregard the false report and continue supporting the military with timely and credible information that would aid ongoing operations.
