Troops Kill Notorious Bandit Leader Battijo, Foil Mass Abduction Plot in Kogi

Nigerian troops have killed Kachalla Ibrahim Battijo, a notorious bandit leader, along with 15 of his associates during an intelligence-led security operation in Kogi State, the military confirmed.

The operation, conducted by troops of the 1 Division and special forces, foiled a planned mass abduction of students sitting the West African Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), the military said.

President Bola Tinubu commended the troops for the operation, describing it as a decisive blow against criminal elements threatening the country’s schools and communities.

Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo confirmed the killing and said the state government was working closely with federal security agencies to prevent further attacks.

The body of Battijo was exhumed and taken for autopsy, according to security sources who spoke to television reporters.

Battijo had been wanted in connection with multiple attacks on communities in Kogi and neighbouring states. Security agencies had placed a bounty on his head.

The military said the operation was the result of months of intelligence gathering and that further arrests were expected as investigations continue.

Nigeria has seen a wave of attacks on schools and communities in the North Central and North West regions, with bandit leaders targeting educational institutions for abduction-for-ransom operations.

Sources: Sahara Reporters, Channels Television, Daily Post Nigeria, Guardian Nigeria