Troops foil attempted abduction of school pupils in Kogi, kill one terrorist

Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, under the 2 Division, have foiled an attempted abduction of pupils at Iluke Community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, preventing what authorities described as a planned mass kidnapping by terrorists disguised in military uniforms.

The operation was conducted on June 10, 2026, following credible intelligence from residents who alerted troops on patrol to the activities of suspected terrorists within the community.

According to a statement signed by Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, troops swiftly mobilised to the area upon receiving the information.

“Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the troops immediately mobilised and advanced to the community to prevent the criminals from achieving their objective,” the statement said.

On arrival, the troops discovered that the terrorists had already assembled pupils of Iluke Primary School with the intention of abducting them.

“Without delay, the troops engaged the terrorists, compelling them to abandon their mission and flee the area. During the encounter, one terrorist was neutralised while several others escaped with gunshot injuries upon the approach and engagement by the troops,” Abdullahi stated.

The army, however, disclosed that before the arrival of security personnel, the attackers had killed a teacher and a resident of the community.

“Sadly, before the arrival of troops, the terrorists had killed a teacher and a resident of the community. Their actions further underscore the criminal and inhumane nature of the terrorists who continue to target innocent civilians,” the statement added.