By Abdullahi Inuwa
A joint operation involving the police and military has resulted in the neutralisation of terrorist elements and the recovery of firearms, ammunition, motorcycles and other items from Gumki Forest in Kangiwa Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The operation, conducted on September 14, 2026, was part of ongoing clearance efforts aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating in the forest and surrounding communities.
The Kebbi State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, disclosed the development to journalists in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital.
According to the police spokesman, Gumki Forest is regarded as a route frequently used by bandits and members of the Lakurawa group.
He said the joint security team, acting on intelligence, entered the forest and engaged the suspected terrorists, resulting in the neutralisation of some of the elements.
The operation also yielded the recovery of a PKT rifle loaded with 174 rounds of live ammunition and an AK-47 rifle with 14 rounds of live ammunition.
Other items recovered from the area included two mobile phones, four motorcycles, a pair of military camouflage uniforms, a pair of boots and charms.
The police said the successful operation had further disrupted the activities of criminal elements using the forest as a hideout and movement corridor.
The Command added that the area remained relatively calm following the operation, while joint security efforts were continuing to clear the forest and other suspected criminal enclaves across the area.
Commissioner of Police, Kebbi State Command, CP Umar Hadejia, commended the participating personnel for what he described as their gallantry, commitment and dedication to duty.
Hadejia reaffirmed the Command’s determination to sustain intelligence-led and coordinated operations with other security agencies in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality in the state.
He also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with timely and credible information that could assist ongoing operations.
The Command assured members of the public that security agencies would continue working together to strengthen safety and prevent criminal elements from regaining footholds in the area.
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