February 16, 2026 — SUNTV Global News Desk
In a major victory against organized banditry, Nigerian security forces have successfully neutralised notorious bandit leader Kachalla Kabiru during a coordinated military operation in Kogi State, security sources have confirmed to SUNTV Global.
The high-profile operation, carried out on February 13, 2026, involved precision airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force, following weeks of intensive intelligence gathering and surveillance.
According to intelligence officials, the mission was jointly executed by operatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, and troops from the Nigerian Army 2 Division.
Sources disclosed that Kabiru and several of his top lieutenants were killed in the decisive strike after credible intelligence confirmed their presence at a designated hideout.
Security reports describe Kabiru as one of the earliest and most influential bandit leaders to establish a strong operational base in Kogi State. He was allegedly responsible for coordinating kidnapping networks, recruiting fighters, and facilitating the movement of weapons and hostages across multiple regions.
Investigations revealed that the slain kingpin migrated from Nigeria’s North-West region into Kogi over a decade ago, where he built an extensive criminal enterprise rooted in forest corridors and border communities.
From his base, Kabiru reportedly directed banditry and kidnapping operations spanning several states, including Kwara, Benue, Enugu, Edo, Ekiti, and Ondo, making him a critical link connecting criminal networks across state lines.
Security officials say his elimination is expected to significantly disrupt bandit coordination in the North Central region and weaken the logistics chain sustaining criminal groups.
Authorities have described the operation as a major strategic success in ongoing efforts to combat violent crime and restore stability across affected communities.
