Preliminary investigations linked the suspects to kidnapping and other criminal activities in parts of the state.
Mr Abubakar said several others escaped into the forest with suspected gunshot wounds.
She said the operation followed credible intelligence leading to a raid within the Baruten LGA of the state.
Mr Uba said the military high command had commended the troops for their gallantry and swift response.
The operation, the army said, was part of efforts to secure major routes in Kogi, following similar operations against criminal elements near Obajana and the Agbaja forest.
The police command in Rivers has arrested a suspected kidnapper and recovered two AK-47 rifles in Port Harcourt.
Mr Onoja added that anti-drug operations resulted in the arrest of several suspects and recovery of illicit substances.
The prosecutor alleged the defendants and others still at large conspired and shot several traders dead with AK-47 rifles.
He said the two neutralised VBIEDs were destroyed by OPHK defensive fire.
He urged the public to continue reporting suspicious activities and crimes to the nearest police station.
