Nigerian Army Eliminates Notorious Bandit Commander in Operation Against Banditry

Security forces led by the Nigerian Army's 12 Brigade have made significant strides in the fight against banditry in Kogi State. On September 11, 2025, combined troops ambushed suspected bandits in the Ofere Forest and Ayetoro Gbede general area, resulting in the neutralization of one bandit and the recovery of various items, including 31 mobile phones and a fully loaded magazine. The operation was part of Operation ACCORD III, a concerted effort to decimate bandits and restore peace in the state. The troops, who have been conducting patrols and ambushes, have seen a significant decrease in criminal activities, with several kidnapped victims rescued during follow-up clearance missions.

Key Takeaways:

• The Nigerian Army's 12 Brigade, under Operation ACCORD III, has made significant progress in combating banditry in Kogi State, including the elimination of notorious bandit commander Babangida Kachala.
• In a separate operation, troops neutralized Kachalla Balla, a bandit commander, and five of his gang members, highlighting the army's commitment to eradicating banditry in the state.
• The troops have recovered valuable items, including 31 mobile phones, a fully loaded magazine, and various medical supplies, intended for use by the bandits.
• The Nigerian Army has vowed to sustain unrelenting pressure on the bandits, urging citizens to provide timely and credible information to support ongoing operations.
• The operation has led to the rescue of several kidnapped victims, including those held captive by Babangida Kachala's gang.
• The morale and fighting efficiency of the troops remain high, as they continue to dominate their area of responsibility with patrols and ambushes aimed at decimating the bandits.

Statistics:

• 1 bandit commander, Babangida Kachala, and another, Kachalla Balla, have been neutralized by the Nigerian Army in separate operations.
• 31 mobile phones, a fully loaded magazine, and various medical supplies, including 1 blood pressure machine, 31 packs of Tramadol tablets, and fetish charms, have been recovered.
• N16,000 cash was also recovered during the operation.
• Several kidnapped victims, including those held captive by Babangida Kachala's gang, have been rescued during follow-up clearance missions with air support.

Sources:

• Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade.