Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 82 Division Nigerian Army have neutralised five gunmen during a fierce gun battle in Odonget community.
The operation was carried out by soldiers of the 13 Brigade as part of ongoing security efforts in the area following an earlier attack on troops who had responded to a distress call linked to a communal dispute.
Military Launches Offensive Operations
According to a statement issued by Yemi Sokoya, the troops launched a series of aggressive operations between March 12 and March 13, 2026, to track down those responsible for the ambush on security personnel.
Sokoya explained that the soldiers conducted cordon-and-search operations and fighting patrols across several locations identified as hideouts of the attackers.
During the operation on March 13, the troops encountered the armed group and engaged them in a gun battle.
The military spokesman said five of the gunmen were neutralised, while other members of the group fled the scene.
Illegal Gun Factory Discovered and Destroyed
Further search operations in the area led to the discovery of an illegal gun manufacturing facility believed to have been used by criminal elements to produce weapons for violent activities.
During the raid, the troops recovered:
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Three AK-47 rifle magazines
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Ten locally fabricated firearms
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A toolbox containing equipment used for weapon production
The illegal weapons factory was subsequently destroyed by the troops to prevent it from being used for further criminal activities.
Army Commends Troops, Reassures Residents
The Commander of the 13 Brigade, Patrick Alimikhena, who supervised the operation, commended the soldiers for their bravery and professionalism during the mission.
He assured residents that the military remains committed to restoring and sustaining peace in the community.
According to him, troops will continue aggressive patrols, surveillance, and security operations to apprehend fleeing suspects and prevent further threats to law-abiding citizens.
Call for Public Cooperation
The military also urged residents of the area to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could help authorities track down criminal elements operating within the community.
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