Military airstrike operations over the weekend neutralised no fewer than 100 terrorists who have been terrorising communities in Kwara State in recent months.

Several other suspected criminals sustained injuries during the coordinated strikes, which targeted multiple camps and hideouts across Edu, Ifelodun, and Patigi Local Government Areas.

The airstrikes were specifically carried out in Baba Sango (Ifelodun LGA), Gbugbu (Edu LGA), and Lata (Patigi LGA).

These locations have long been identified as strongholds of bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers operating in the state.

A military source confirmed that the sustained operations destroyed several criminal camps, forcing surviving elements to flee.

“Residents need to be vigilant and speak up about informants who leak information on troop movements. This is important for greater success,” the source said.

Ongoing Security Operations

Speaking to journalists in Ilorin on Sunday, a senior military officer involved in the operations said the strikes were part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks in Kwara.

“Ongoing military operations have attacked terrorist camps in parts of Edu, Ifelodun and Patigi Local Government Areas, neutralising many kidnappers and terrorists,” he explained.

He added that the airstrikes specifically targeted camps operated by notorious bandits with hideouts in Baba Sango, Gbugbu, and Lata.

“It is obvious that the ongoing operation has thrown the bandits into disarray and displaced them from their positions. However, operations are still being hampered by moles and informants within communities who leak information about troop movements,” the officer stated.

Security analysts say the success of the strikes highlights the importance of intelligence-led operations but warn that informants within communities remain a major obstacle.

Authorities have urged residents to cooperate by reporting suspicious activities and individuals, stressing that community support is vital to sustaining the gains of the operation.

The strikes are among the most significant military actions in Kwara in recent months, reflecting the growing determination of security forces to dismantle the entrenched criminal networks.