The Nigerian Army has deployed a full brigade and heavy equipment across parts of Kwara South to combat rising cases of kidnapping and banditry in the area.

In a statement signed by Rafiu Ajakaye, the Chief Press Secretary to Kwara Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, troops were sighted moving through communities in Oke Ode and Babanla, both in Ifelodun Local Government Area.

According to the statement, the operation is also extending to Edu and Patigi local government areas in Kwara North, where security operatives are combing dense forests that have served as hideouts for kidnappers launching attacks and abductions.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who recently met with President Bola Tinubu on the issue in Jos, commended the President, the military high command, and allied security agencies for their renewed intervention in restoring public safety.

He assured that the state government would continue to support the military, the DSS, the police, and other security agencies participating in the ongoing Operation Fasan Yanma to protect lives and property.

“We are confident that the Brigadier General A.A. Babatunde-led Army Brigade will succeed in this important task and clear the affected areas,” the governor said, while also commending the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Army Staff, and the General Officer Commanding 2 Division for their support.