The Kogi State Police Command has stepped up operations in forest corridors considered vulnerable to criminal activities, targeting hideouts around Kabba/Bunu, Obajana and Lokoja.

The exercise, conducted from about 7am on Wednesday, August 20, involved the police, military, local vigilantes and other security auxiliaries. It followed a directive by the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi, as part of efforts to prevent criminals from using remote forests as operational bases.

Police spokesperson, Salisu Afusat, said the joint team moved through the Daji 2 Forest Zone, a major corridor connecting Kabba/Bunu, Obajana and Lokoja.

“The operation involved officers and men of the police, military, local vigilante groups and other auxiliary forces.

“The team moved through the Daji 2 Forest Zone, a strategic forest corridor linking Kabba/Bunu, Obajana and Lokoja, demonstrating strong coordination and determination among all participating units.”

According to Afusat, the security personnel discovered and cleared an abandoned settlement believed to have previously served as a hideout and staging area for criminal activities.

The team also searched Amos Camp, another abandoned hideout situated in difficult terrain surrounded by creeks and mountainous areas.

“Despite the challenging environment, the security team successfully navigated the area and carried out a thorough clearance of the camp and surrounding forest paths.

“Signs of recent movement were observed along routes leading towards the Oyo Forest axis of Obajana, indicating that criminal elements had vacated the area ahead of the advancing security presence.”

The command said the operation had boosted confidence among residents and farmers, with some returning to their farms and normal activities following the increased security presence.

“The operation has significantly strengthened the confidence of farmers and residents within the affected communities, with many already returning to their farmlands and daily activities, encouraged by the visible presence and sustained efforts of the security forces,” the statement added.

Afusat said security formations under the Kabba Area Command would continue patrols, intelligence gathering and forest clearance operations in other identified locations.

Kankarofi commended the participating personnel and community-based security groups for their courage and cooperation, particularly in navigating the difficult terrain.

He assured residents and farmers that the command would maintain the operations to protect communities and support safe economic activities across the state.