Nigeria, July 13 -- Security forces in Kogi State have uncovered a network of individuals and businesses supplying food, water and fuel to kidnapping gangs operating in the region.

Kingsley Fanwo, the state's Commissioner for Information and Communications, said security forces uncovered the networks during raids in the Kabba/Bunu, Ijumu, Yagba East, and Yagba West areas.

He said the operations were prompted by recent high-profile incidents, including the kidnapping and subsequent death of a retired army officer from Odo-Ape, and the abduction of a prominent farmer from Ponyan in Yagba East. The farmer and several others were reportedly freed within days due to sustained security efforts.

According to the commissioner, a key developmen...