More than 200 suspected members of an armed kidnapping gang have been killed during an ongoing security operation in central Nigeria, according to Kogi State authorities.
The large-scale offensive, which began on Saturday, involves multiple security and paramilitary agencies and has also led to several arrests, although officials did not disclose exact figures. Video footage shared by Kogi police shows a settlement in a thickly forested area engulfed in flames, believed to be one of several bandit hideouts destroyed during the operation.
Criminal gangs, commonly referred to as bandits, have for years carried out kidnappings and deadly attacks for ransom, particularly in Nigeria’s north-west. In recent times, their activities have spread to other regions, including central Nigeria. The latest crackdown follows a rise in mass abductions, including attacks on schools that have sparked public outrage across the country.
Just last month, Nigerian authorities secured the release of students and teachers abducted from a boarding school in neighbouring Niger State.
Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, said several bandit camps were dismantled during coordinated operations over the weekend. However, he noted that security forces are facing difficulties pursuing fleeing suspects because some of the gangs are using kidnapped civilians as human shields.
He explained that while the bandits have been thrown into disarray, the presence of hostages has limited the ability of security personnel to fully neutralise them without risking civilian lives.
Kogi State has increasingly become a hotspot for criminal activity due to its strategic location linking northern and southern Nigeria through vast forest corridors, making it attractive to armed groups operating across state lines.
Security analyst and retired army major Bashir Galma told the BBC that the reported casualty figures could be exaggerated, especially with elections approaching, but added that the surprise nature of the operation could also mean significant losses for the gangs.
Nigeria continues to grapple with multiple security challenges, including kidnapping, armed banditry, Islamist insurgency, land-related conflicts and separatist unrest.
Meanwhile, the United States military recently confirmed the delivery of critical military supplies to Nigeria in support of ongoing security operations. The US Africa Command described the move as part of its security partnership with the country.
The US has also carried out airstrikes on militant camps in north-western Nigeria and warned of further action if civilian killings continue. Nigerian authorities have reiterated their commitment to protecting all citizens, regardless of religion or background.