Nigerian Army troops have exhumed the body of suspected bandit kingpin Ibrahim Battijo from a deep forest near Iluke in Kogi State for forensic examination and autopsy.
The operation was carried out on Monday, June 16, 2026, and led by the Commander of 12 Brigade, Lokoja, Brigadier General Karim Sidi. Troops stormed the forest area near Iluke, Bunu in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area to recover the remains after Battijo was neutralized during a gun battle.
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Battijo was killed on June 10, 2026, when troops foiled a mass abduction attempt targeting WAEC students in Iluke. Security analyst Zagazola Makama confirmed that the exhumation was necessary to conduct proper forensic tests and verify details surrounding the suspect’s death during the encounter with soldiers.
The army said the exercise forms part of ongoing efforts to gather intelligence and document evidence against criminal gangs operating in Kogi forests. Authorities noted that Battijo was linked to multiple kidnappings and attacks in Kabba/Bunu and neighboring communities.
The recovered body has been moved for autopsy while troops maintain patrols in the area to prevent reprisal attacks and secure residents.
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