Ondo: Army Guns Down Two Suspected Bandits

By Ayodele Oni

Clearance operation and intensive patrols embarked upon by security agents in Ondo state are yielding result as troops of the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army neutralised two suspected armed terrorists during a tactical operation.

The operation, which was carried out on February 14 along the Akunu–Auga road axis, in Akoko area, followed credible intelligence on the movement of suspected criminal elements within the area.

Sources disclosed that the troops, deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Auga, swiftly mobilised to intercept the suspects. A gun battle reportedly ensued when the armed men engaged the soldiers.

Military authorities said two of the suspects were killed during the exchange of fire, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

The operation was conducted in collaboration with personnel of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun Corps, and local vigilantes.

Items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle with two magazines and 61 rounds of ammunition. Other exhibits recovered were three mobile phones, a jackknife, a torchlight, suspected illicit drugs charms, and the sum of ₦39,000.

The Army said the operation underscored its resolve to curtail criminal activities and ensure the safety of residents across the state.

It added that troops would sustain clearance operations and intensify patrols along identified flashpoints, while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders.

Residents were urged to continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to aid ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.