Dare Babalola
Troops of the 32 Artillery Brigade have conducted a successful tactical operation in Ondo State, resulting in the neutralisation of two suspected armed terrorists and the recovery of weapons.
According to a statement issued by Major Irabor Njoka, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, and disseminated via the Nigerian Army’s official X handle on Monday, troops stationed at the Forward Operating Base Auga conducted the operation along the Akunu-Auga Road on February 14, 2026.
The statement revealed that the troops, acting on credible human intelligence, had swiftly mobilised and intercepted the suspects following information about their movement in the area.
“The ensuing contact with the armed elements led to a firefight, where the troops’ superior firepower resulted in the neutralisation of two of the terrorists, while others fled with suspected gunshot wounds.
“The operation was carried out in conjunction with personnel of the Ondo State Security Network Agency and local vigilantes.
“Items recovered from the encounter with the criminals include one AK-47 rifle with two magazines and 61 rounds of ammunition, three mobile handsets, a jackknife, a torchlight, suspected illicit drugs, charms, and the sum of ₦39,000, among other personal effects,” the statement read.
The Brigade stated that this operation highlights the Nigerian Army’s commitment to curbing criminal activities and safeguarding lives and property in Ondo State, emphasising their resolve to deny criminals freedom of action and movement.
It added that troops would sustain clearance and exploitation operations, intensify patrols along identified criminal corridors, and strengthen collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders to ensure security in the state.
The Army urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information, noting that public cooperation remains critical to efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.
This incident comes amid a broader surge in security operations across Nigeria.
Recall that the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as the Amotekun Corps, arrested no fewer than 95 suspected criminals across the 18 local government areas of the state for various offences.
According to the state commander, the suspects were allegedly involved in crimes such as kidnapping, stealing, burglary, and illegal mining.
