The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports alleging that armed bandits ambushed and overpowered its troops, carting away heavy weapons and ammunition in Obanla, Kwara State.
Earlier on Sunday, SaharaReporters had published an exclusive report claiming that a group of bandits seized six General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) and over 30,000 rounds of ammunition from a Nigerian Army joint task force in Kwara last month. The report also alleged that the same gang is responsible for recent deadly attacks in parts of Kogi State.
However, in a swift response, the Army refuted the claim in a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 2 Division. He described the report as “false, misleading, and aimed at demoralising gallant troops.”
According to the Army, its personnel from the 148 Battalion (Rear), currently conducting clearance operations across Kogi and Kwara States, have continued to record notable successes.
“In a recent encounter, troops established a blocking position along the Kwara–Ekiti border axis, neutralised two armed bandits, and recovered two brand-new AK-47 rifles,” the statement said.
The Army stressed that no military position was ever overrun and that no cache of weapons or ammunition was lost to criminal elements as alleged.
“Our troops remain firmly in control of their operational areas,” it added, while urging members of the public to disregard reports designed to undermine confidence in the military.
It further appealed for continued public cooperation by providing credible information that could aid ongoing operations, reaffirming its commitment to dismantling criminal networks operating across Kwara, Kogi, and neighbouring states.
Meanwhile, recent weeks have seen a surge in bandit attacks across parts of Kwara and Kogi. Communities such as Bareke and Ejiba in Yagba West Local Government Area have suffered multiple raids, kidnappings, and killings, forcing many residents to flee their homes.
Videos and eyewitness accounts have shown deserted villages and burnt vigilante patrol motorcycles, underscoring the worsening insecurity in the region despite ongoing military operations.
