Scores of bandits have been neutralised while several criminal networks were dislodged during ongoing joint security operations across forests in Kogi State, the state Police Command has confirmed.

The operations, carried out by a combined team of the Nigeria Police Force and the military, were reinforced by precision air strikes from the Nigeria Police Force Air Wing, leading to significant breakthroughs against bandit groups operating within the state.

According to the Police Command, the sustained onslaught has forced many bandits to flee their hideouts, while others were eliminated during encounters with security forces. 

The command described the operation as being executed with “vigour, commitment, and utmost professionalism.”

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP William Ovye Aya, the command urged members of the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies as the operations continue.

“The command wishes to alert the public to be on the lookout for persons seen with bullet wounds, injuries, or exhibiting suspicious behaviour, and to report such individuals to the nearest police station,” the statement said.

The police further called on residents to support the security agencies with credible intelligence on the movement or activities of criminal elements within their communities, stressing that security remains a collective responsibility.

“Together, we can make Nigeria better,” the statement added.

The command also provided emergency contact numbers — 07038329084 and 08152195982 — for members of the public to report suspicious activities or provide useful information to aid the ongoing operations.