The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports circulating on social media that bandits overran military positions in Kwara State, describing the claims as false and designed to undermine troop morale.

In a statement issued Monday, spokesperson for the 2 Division, Lt.-Col. Polycarp Okoye, said troops of the 148 Battalion (Rear), currently conducting clearance operations across Kogi and Kwara States, have continued to record significant successes against criminal elements.

“Contrary to the sensational claims, troops mounted a strong blocking position along the Kwara–Ekiti border axis, where they neutralized two armed bandits and recovered two brand new AK-47 rifles,” Okoye said.

He emphasized that at no point were Army positions overrun or any cache of weapons seized, calling the reports “a fabrication designed to mislead the public and undermine the morale of gallant troops diligently working to restore peace and stability in the region.”

The Army’s rebuttal follows a wave of online speculation suggesting that bandits had overwhelmed military units and captured arms. The military insists the reverse is true, citing recent operations that led to the elimination of a notorious terrorist kingpin, Kachalla Maidawa, and 11 of his fighters in joint operations with other security agencies.

A military source confirmed that weapons and ammunition were recovered during the operation and that troops are continuing to pursue the remaining criminals into their hideouts.

Lt.-Col. Okoye reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to decisively confront criminal elements across the country and urged citizens to disregard false reports while providing timely and credible intelligence to support ongoing operations.