By THOMPSON YAMPUT

The Police Command in Kogi says eight suspected criminals have been arrested in a joint bush combing operation by security operatives in the state.

A statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, ASP Saliu Afusat, on Friday in Lokoja, said that the operation was a resolve to deny criminal elements any safe haven in Kogi.

She said that the coordinated bush-combing operations across various parts of the state were carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, local hunters, and vigilante groups.

Afusat said that in the course of the operation, eight suspects were arrested at different points for questioning in connection with suspected criminal activities.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that some of the suspects are believed to be informants aiding kidnapping syndicates operating within the area.

“The suspects are currently in custody, and thorough investigations are ongoing, after which appropriate legal action will be taken based on the outcome of investigations,” she said.

According to her, the operation forms part of continuous, intelligence-led security measures routinely conducted across different locations in Kogi to proactively detect, disrupt, and dismantle criminal networks.

She explained that the exercise involved thorough combing of identified forested and remote areas suspected to be vulnerable to criminal exploitation.

Afusat added, “Ground operations were effectively complemented with aerial surveillance, providing enhanced situational awareness, tracking of suspicious movements, and the identification of concealed criminal hideouts.

“In line with this strategy, discovered bandit camps and hideouts were neutralised to prevent reuse and deny criminal elements any operational comfort.”

She quoted the state police commissioner, Mr Naziru Kankarofi, as assuring the good people of Kogi of the command’s firm control of the security situation and its unwavering resolve to protect lives and property.

Kankarofi urged members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious activity through the command’s Control Room emergency lines: 07038329084 and 08152195982. (NAN)