Nigerian security forces have killed more than 200 suspected members of a kidnapping gang in a large-scale operation in central Kogi state, officials told the BBC. The multi-agency offensive, which began on Saturday, marks a significant escalation in efforts to combat bandit violence that has plagued the region.
The operation involved coordinated raids by various security and paramilitary units, resulting in the destruction of several bandit camps hidden in forested areas. Footage shared by Kogi state police, captured from a helicopter, shows flames engulfing one of these settlements, illustrating the intensity of the assault. Authorities confirmed that arrests were made during the raids, though the exact number has not been specified.
For years, criminal gangs referred to locally as bandits have terrorized communities, primarily in Nigeria’s north-west, through killings and kidnappings for ransom. Recently, these groups have expanded their operations to other parts of the country, including Kogi state, contributing to a rise in insecurity. This shift has been driven by the lucrative nature of the kidnapping trade and the challenging terrain that provides cover for their activities.
The current offensive comes amid a surge in mass abductions, particularly targeting schools, which has sparked widespread public outrage. Last month, authorities secured the release of remaining pupils and teachers kidnapped in November from a boarding school in neighboring Niger state, highlighting the persistent threat. The government, under pressure to restore security, has directed intensified efforts against these gangs, with President Bola Tinubu issuing recent orders to top security officials.
Kingsley Fanwo, Kogi state’s commissioner for information, detailed the challenges faced during the operation. He reported that bandits are using civilians they have abducted as human shields, complicating efforts to apprehend those who fled. ‘Security forces have put them in disarray wherever they try to regroup,’ Fanwo said, emphasizing the tactical difficulties posed by the hostages.
Kogi state has emerged as a critical insecurity hotspot due to its strategic location linking Nigeria’s north and south through dense forest corridors. This geography makes it attractive to armed groups seeking to operate across state boundaries, according to security analysts. The state’s increasing vulnerability underscores the broader national struggle against overlapping security crises, including Islamist insurgencies and separatist movements.
Security expert Bashir Galma, a retired army major, offered a nuanced perspective on the reported casualties. He suggested that the number of 200 killed might be exaggerated, as politicians could be inflating figures with elections a year away. However, he acknowledged that the surprise nature of the attack likely resulted in significant losses for the bandits, reflecting the effectiveness of coordinated security actions.
Nigeria’s security landscape is further complicated by international involvement, particularly from the United States. In recent weeks, the U.S. has conducted airstrikes on Islamist militant camps and warned of more action if attacks on Christians continue. The Nigerian government has responded by affirming its commitment to protecting all citizens regardless of faith, while engaging constructively with international partners to address the multifaceted threats.
As operations continue, the focus remains on rescuing hostages and dismantling remaining bandit networks. The success in Kogi state could signal a turning point, but sustained efforts are essential to curb the violence and restore stability in affected regions. The ongoing collaboration between Nigerian forces and international allies will be crucial in navigating the complex security challenges ahead.
