Troops of the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Akure, Ondo State, neutralised two suspected armed terrorists during a tactical operation along the Akunu–Auga-Akoko Road on Saturday.
The soldiers, stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Auga-Akoko, executed the mission following credible intelligence reports. The Brigade’s spokesperson, Major Irabor Njoka, revealed in a statement issued to journalists in Akure on Monday that the action was prompted by intelligence concerning the movement of suspected criminals in the area.
According to him, the troops responded promptly and intercepted the suspects.
“The ensuing contact with the armed elements led to a firefight. The troops’ superior firepower resulted in the neutralisation of two of the terrorists, while others fled with suspected gunshot wounds,” he said.
He explained that the operation was carried out in collaboration with personnel of the Ondo State Security Network Agency and local vigilantes. Major Njoka detailed the items recovered during the encounter, including one AK-47 rifle with two magazines and 61 rounds of ammunition, three mobile phones, a jackknife, a torchlight, suspected illicit substances, charms, and ₦39,000 in cash, among other personal belongings.
The spokesperson noted that the outcome of the mission demonstrates the Nigerian Army’s determination to restrict criminal activities and ensure the safety of lives and property across Ondo State.
He assured residents that the brigade would continue to enhance cooperation with other security agencies and community stakeholders to maintain peace and stability. He also appealed to the public to keep supplying prompt and reliable information to security authorities, emphasising that community support remains vital in the fight against crime in the state.