Police begin patrols to combat banditry, abductions in Kogi

The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Police Command, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, alongside the Kogi State Security Adviser, Commodore Jerry Omodara (Rtd), on Wednesday embarked on a confidence-building patrol along Obajana, Kabba, and Ayere roads.

The patrol, according to the state command’s spokesman, CSP William Aya, was aimed at reassuring residents of their safety.

He said, “CP Naziru is taking proactive steps to boost security in Kogi State. The confidence-building patrol along Obajana, Kabba, and Ayere Road is a fantastic way to boost morale and security in the area.

“By strategizing and responding promptly to emergency threats, the Commissioner of Police is sending a strong message of safety and security to the good people of Kogi State. CP Kankarofi is truly making a difference in Kogi State.

“The confidence-building patrol is a testament to his dedication to improving security and engaging with the community. Kogi State Command is indeed committed to keeping the state safe and secure.”

The State Security Adviser, Commodore Jerry Omodara (Rtd), who joined the CP on the patrol, praised the initiative, saying it would motivate personnel and enhance overall security arrangements.

He added, “The CP is showing his commitment to keeping Kogi State safe and secure.”

The Kabba-Obajana road has been a hotspot for kidnappings, prompting the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to curb criminal activities.

The joint task force, which includes the Army, police, local hunters, and the state vigilante service, has recorded notable successes. Two weeks ago, troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma, successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ransom money meant for their release.

In October, joint security agencies, including troops from the 12 Brigade, raided a bandits’ camp on the outskirts of Aherin-Bunu community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area. The operation, led by State Security Adviser Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), resulted in the camp being set on fire by security forces.

Similarly, in September, hybrid forces under Operation Accord III, including troops of the 12 Brigade and other units, killed a notorious bandit commander, Babangida Kachala, the second-in-command to Kachala Shuaibu, leader of a bandit group operating within the Masalaci Boka and Ofere Forest areas of Kogi State.