By Harriet Tornguvan
Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, operating under the 2 Division, have foiled an attempted abduction of pupils at Iluke Community in Kabba Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, preventing what security authorities described as a potentially large-scale kidnapping of school children.
The operation, carried out on June 10, 2026, followed credible intelligence provided by members of the community who alerted security personnel to the presence and activities of suspected terrorists in the area.
According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, the terrorists, disguised in military uniforms, had infiltrated the community with plans to abduct pupils of Iluke Primary School.
He said troops on patrol immediately mobilised to the community after receiving the intelligence report and moved swiftly to prevent the criminals from executing their plan.
"On arrival, troops discovered that the terrorists had already assembled pupils of Iluke Primary School with the intention of abducting them. Without delay, the troops engaged the terrorists, compelling them to abandon their mission and flee the area," the statement said.
During the ensuing confrontation, one of the terrorists was neutralised, while several others reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds sustained during the engagement.
The Army, however, disclosed that before the arrival of the troops, the attackers had killed a teacher and another resident of the community.
The military condemned the killings, describing them as further evidence of the criminal and inhumane nature of terrorist groups that continue to target innocent civilians.
The statement noted that the prompt intervention by the troops prevented what could have resulted in the mass abduction of school children and saved many lives.
It added that the successful operation demonstrated the vigilance, professionalism and commitment of personnel of the 12 Brigade in protecting lives and securing vulnerable communities within their area of responsibility.
Meanwhile, troops have launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects. Security agencies in neighbouring Kwara and Niger states have also been alerted to block possible escape routes due to the interconnected nature of communities along the borders.
The Army said additional security measures have been put in place to deny terrorists freedom of movement, reassure residents and prevent further attacks in the area.
It also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing efforts to rid the state and the country of criminal elements.
