Nigerian Army Denies Losing Weapons to Bandits in Kwara Operation
The Nigerian Army has dismissed as false and misleading an online publication alleging that bandits overran troops and carted away weapons and ammunition in Obanla, Kwara State.
In a statement issued on Sunday, by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 2 Division, the Army described the report as a “fabrication designed to mislead the public and undermine the morale of gallant troops.”
According to the statement, troops of the 148 Battalion (Rear) currently conducting clearance operations across Kogi and Kwara States have continued to record major operational successes, including the neutralization of armed bandits and recovery of sophisticated weapons.
“At no time were Army positions overrun, nor was any cache of weapons or ammunition lost to criminal elements, as mischievously reported by the online platform,” the statement read.
Lieutenant Colonel Okoye explained that in a recent encounter, troops mounted a strong blocking position along the Kwara–Ekiti border axis, where they engaged a group of armed bandits attempting to infiltrate the area. The operation, he said, led to the neutralization of two assailants and the recovery of two brand-new AK-47 rifles, further demonstrating the military’s superior operational edge.
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He added that the online report suggesting that troops lost six General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) and over 30,000 rounds of ammunition was not only false but also aimed at spreading panic and eroding public trust in the ongoing counter-banditry campaign.
“The publication is a deliberate attempt to misinform Nigerians and distort the facts about ongoing operations in Kwara and its environs. Our troops remain in full control of all their positions and are intensifying efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the region,” Okoye clarified.
The Army spokesperson urged the public to disregard such falsehoods and continue to support the military with timely and credible information that can aid operations in the fight against banditry, terrorism, and other forms of criminality.
He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to sustaining the momentum of its clearance operations across the North-Central corridor, stressing that the Nigerian Army under the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, remains resolute in restoring peace and stability nationwide.
“Our troops’ morale remains high, and their determination unwavering. The Nigerian Army will continue to pursue all criminal elements until every hideout is cleared and communities are safe,” the statement added.
The Army, therefore, called on media organizations to verify information from credible official sources before publication, urging responsible journalism as a national security obligation.
By PRNigeria
