Troops of the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army have neutralised two terrorists during a tactical operation conducted along the Akunu–Auga road in Akoko North-East LGA of Ondo.

The brigade’s spokesman, Irabor Njoka, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

Mr Njoka said the operation was carried out on Saturday by troops deployed at the Auga forward operating base. He explained that the troops swiftly mobilised and intercepted the suspects.

Mr Njoka said that the troops’ interception of the criminals led to a firefight that resulted in neutralising two of the terrorists, while others fled with gunshot wounds.

“The operation was carried out in conjunction with personnel of the Ondo State Security Network Agency and local vigilantes.

“Items recovered from the encounter with the criminals include one AK-47 rifle with two magazines and 61 rounds of ammunition,

“Also, three mobile handsets, a jackknife, torchlight, suspected illicit drugs, charms and the sum of N39,000 among other personal effects,” he said.

Mr Njoka said the operation’s success highlighted the Nigerian Army’s unwavering resolve to deny criminals freedom of action and movement, as well as to protect lives and property across the state.

“The brigade will continue to sustain aggressive clearance and exploitation operations, intensify patrols along identified criminal corridors, strengthen collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders to ensure a secure environment for residents,” Mr Njoka said.

Mr Njoka urged the public to continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, saying public cooperation remains critical to the ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminals.

(NAN)