By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Lokoja
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade have exhumed the body of notorious bandit leader, Ibrahim Battijo, popularly known as Kachalla Baccujo, from a forest near Iluke in Bunu District of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State for forensic examination.
Battijo was reportedly killed on June 10, 2026, during a military operation launched after he allegedly led a gang attack on students writing the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) at Government Secondary School, Iluke.
The attack claimed the lives of three persons, including the school’s Vice Principal, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Following the assault, joint military task force operatives pursued the attackers into the surrounding forest, where an exchange of gunfire ensued.
During the operation, troops discovered Battijo’s lifeless body in the forest and buried it at the location pending further directives from higher authorities.
Speaking after the exhumation exercise on Monday, June 15, 2026, Commander of the 12 Brigade, Lokoja, Brigadier General Karim Sidi, said the operation was carried out in compliance with official instructions.
According to him, the remains were exhumed to enable security agencies conduct an autopsy and DNA analysis to conclusively establish the identity of the deceased.
“We have successfully exhumed the body of Ibrahim Battijo from the Iluke forest for autopsy and DNA testing to confirm whether he is indeed the person in question and put the matter to rest,” the Brigade Commander stated.
General Sidi disclosed that he personally led a 12-man military team that carried out the operation.
He further revealed that two helicopters deployed by the Office of the National Security Adviser provided aerial cover to ensure a smooth and secure exercise.
Security sources said the development underscores the government’s determination to dismantle criminal networks operating in Kogi State and neighbouring areas.
