Police intensify bush clearance, dislodge criminals from Kogi forests

The Kogi State Police Command is intensifying its efforts to combat crime by conducting extensive bush clearance operations across identified forest locations. These operations aim to flush out criminal elements and dismantle their hideouts, particularly in forest areas that link key axes like Kabba/Bunu, Obajana, and Lokoja.

The recent operation, which took place on August 20, 2026, involved a coordinated effort by officers from the police, military, local vigilante groups, and other auxiliary forces. According to ASP Salisu Afusat, the command's spokesperson, the operation was executed under the directive of the State Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Kankarofi. The primary objective was to maintain pressure on criminals and prevent them from utilizing remote forest locations as bases.

During the exercise, a joint team navigated through the Daji 2 Forest Zone, a strategic corridor known for its challenging terrain. They successfully identified and cleared an abandoned settlement that was suspected of being used as a criminal hideout and staging point. Further into the forest, another abandoned hideout, referred to as Amos Camp, located in a difficult area characterized by creeks and mountainous terrain, was also thoroughly cleared.

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

Evidence gathered during the operation suggested that criminal elements had recently vacated the area. Signs of recent movement were observed along routes leading towards the Oyo Forest axis of Obajana, indicating that the criminals had fled in anticipation of the security forces' advance. This successful clearance has reportedly boosted the confidence of residents and farmers in the affected communities, encouraging them to return to their farmlands and daily activities.

The command assures residents that patrols, intelligence gathering, and bush clearance operations will continue across other identified areas. The Commissioner of Police commended the personnel and collaborating forces for their resilience and teamwork in navigating the difficult terrain and maintaining operational momentum, reaffirming the command's commitment to ensuring a safe environment.

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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.