Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 32 Artillery Brigade have killed two suspected terrorists during a coordinated security operation along the Akunu-Auga road in Ondo State.
The operation, conducted on February 14, involved personnel from the brigade’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Auga, working in collaboration with the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun, and local vigilantes.
In a statement issued on February 16, the spokesperson for the 32 Artillery Brigade, Irabor Njoka, said the troops acted on credible human intelligence concerning the movement of suspected criminals within the area.
According to him, the soldiers swiftly mobilised and intercepted the suspects, leading to an exchange of gunfire.
“Troops acting on credible human intelligence regarding the movement of the suspected criminals within the area, swiftly mobilised and intercepted the suspects,” the statement read. “A gunfight ensued between the terrorists and security forces.”
Two of the suspects were killed during the confrontation, while others reportedly escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.
Security forces recovered one AK-47 rifle with two magazines and 61 rounds of ammunition from the scene.
Other items seized included three mobile handsets, a jackknife, a torchlight, suspected illicit drugs, charms, and the sum of N39,000, among other personal effects.
The Army described the operation as a reflection of its determination to curtail criminal activities and safeguard residents across Ondo State.
“The success of the operation highlights the Nigerian Army’s unwavering resolve to deny criminal elements freedom of action and movement, as well as to protect lives and property across Ondo State,” the spokesperson stated.
He added that the brigade would sustain aggressive clearance and exploitation operations, intensify patrols along identified criminal corridors, and deepen collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders to ensure a safer environment.
The brigade also urged residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence, emphasising that public cooperation remains crucial in ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.
Ondo State has experienced repeated security challenges in recent years, including the 2022 Owo church attack and a more recent assault on a police station in Ipele town.
While authorities have not officially linked any specific group to the latest incident, a breakaway faction of Boko Haram, Ansaru, has previously claimed or been associated with attacks in parts of the state.