The Nigerian Army has been ranked as the Army has persevered and grown to be the 39th bravest in terms of confronting any adversary out of over 145 countries assessed in the Global Firepower Index in 2024.
The Nigerian Army has been ranked as the Army has persevered and grown to be the 39th bravest in terms of confronting any adversary out of over 145 countries assessed in the Global Firepower Index in 2024.
 |
| Fouani |
Fouani runs the Fouani Group, which is the sole franchise owner of LG and Hisense products in Nigeria. He personally introduced LG and Maxi electronics products into the Nigerian market 24 years ago. Hisense later followed.
He also owns Yara Diapers, with its factory in Lagos.
While he was travelling by boat in Lagos, armed men kidnapped him and his companions.
While travelling from Apapa to Victoria Island, Mr. Fouani and three other Lebanese with him were abducted around Falomo Bridge in open daylight.
His abductors have established contact with the Fouani family, and they are demanding a ransom of $1.5 million to be paid in dollars for the release of the businessman.
Source: Social Media
|
| Fouani |
Fouani runs the Fouani Group, which is the sole franchise owner of LG and Hisense products in Nigeria. He personally introduced LG and Maxi electronics products into the Nigerian market 24 years ago. Hisense later followed.
He also owns Yara Diapers, with its factory in Lagos.
While he was travelling by boat in Lagos, armed men kidnapped him and his companions.
While travelling from Apapa to Victoria Island, Mr. Fouani and three other Lebanese with him were abducted around Falomo Bridge in open daylight.
His abductors have established contact with the Fouani family, and they are demanding a ransom of $1.5 million to be paid in dollars for the release of the businessman.
Source: Social Media
 |
| Ekoa |
|
| Ekoa |
In Kaduna State, troops in a decisive operation conducted a two-day fighting patrol to Kajuru and Kachia Local Government Areas, during which they engaged and neutralized five terrorists in a fierce combat at Dantarau. After defeating the terrorists, the gallant troops recovered a cache of arms, including 2 AK-47 rifles, one fabricated submachine gun (SMG), 9 AK 47 magazines, 250 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, 2 motorcycles, and two handheld radios.
This victory significantly disrupted terrorists' activities along the Maro-Enugu community axis, bolstering security in the general area.
Relatedly in Zamfara State, troops deployed along the Gusau-Tsafe-Funtua road, responding to a distress call successfully thwarted a kidnap attempt in the Angwan Chida area of Tsafe Local Government Area. During the rescue operation, troops engaged the terrorists attempting to abduct occupants of a Toyota Corolla in a fierce shootout, neutralizing two terrorists and rescuing four passengers The operation resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, three magazines, 31 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one motorcycle, and the vehicle involved in the attempted abduction.
In Abia State, troops conducted a successful raid operation to an identified IPOB/ESN enclave located in Igboro Forest, in Arochukwu Local Government Area. Despite encountering three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted by the terrorists, troops successfully recovered three locally fabricated Rocket-Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and a locally fabricated Artillery Gun. The terrorists were forced to flee, as they succumbed to the superior fire power of the troops. One soldier who sustained a minor injury from shrapnel is receiving medical attention and recuperating. The destruction of this camp represents a significant blow to the terrorist elements operating in the area.
These successful operations underscore the Nigerian Army's unwavering dedication to combating terrorists' activities. The effective raids and fighting patrols have not only disrupted the activities of the terrorists, but also restored a sense of security and confidence among the affected communities. The Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens and continues to make substantial progress in the fight against terrorism.
Source: Nigerian Army
In Kaduna State, troops in a decisive operation conducted a two-day fighting patrol to Kajuru and Kachia Local Government Areas, during which they engaged and neutralized five terrorists in a fierce combat at Dantarau. After defeating the terrorists, the gallant troops recovered a cache of arms, including 2 AK-47 rifles, one fabricated submachine gun (SMG), 9 AK 47 magazines, 250 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, 2 motorcycles, and two handheld radios.
This victory significantly disrupted terrorists' activities along the Maro-Enugu community axis, bolstering security in the general area.
Relatedly in Zamfara State, troops deployed along the Gusau-Tsafe-Funtua road, responding to a distress call successfully thwarted a kidnap attempt in the Angwan Chida area of Tsafe Local Government Area. During the rescue operation, troops engaged the terrorists attempting to abduct occupants of a Toyota Corolla in a fierce shootout, neutralizing two terrorists and rescuing four passengers The operation resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, three magazines, 31 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one motorcycle, and the vehicle involved in the attempted abduction.
In Abia State, troops conducted a successful raid operation to an identified IPOB/ESN enclave located in Igboro Forest, in Arochukwu Local Government Area. Despite encountering three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted by the terrorists, troops successfully recovered three locally fabricated Rocket-Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and a locally fabricated Artillery Gun. The terrorists were forced to flee, as they succumbed to the superior fire power of the troops. One soldier who sustained a minor injury from shrapnel is receiving medical attention and recuperating. The destruction of this camp represents a significant blow to the terrorist elements operating in the area.
These successful operations underscore the Nigerian Army's unwavering dedication to combating terrorists' activities. The effective raids and fighting patrols have not only disrupted the activities of the terrorists, but also restored a sense of security and confidence among the affected communities. The Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens and continues to make substantial progress in the fight against terrorism.
Source: Nigerian Army
According to a statement signed by the Major General Onyema Neachukwu who is the Director, Army Public Relations said contrary to the falsehood being spread from the devious propaganda machinery of the desperate and self-serving terrorists' leader, the NA wishes to state that it has conducted a comprehensive investigation on the allegations made by Simon Ekpa and his associates.
"Accordingly, we wish to categorically refute these baseless claims by throwing more light on the occurrence. In the first instance, the troops in the video footage are not personnel of the Nigerian Army, as the insignia visible on their berets clearly identifies them as personnel of the Nigerian Navy, who were engaged in a routine test firing of a weapon system mounted on a vehicle and in order to ensure the safety of other road users and commuters, the troops took precautionary measures by temporarily halting vehicular movement along the route, until the test firing was safely concluded."
The statement added that observers were also kept at a safe distance, maintaining transparency and prioritizing the safety of all involved.
"Additionally, preliminary findings also indicate that the occurrence took place in the Southwest region of the country and not the Southeast as advertently portrayed by the false alarmist and propagandists. Furthermore, it was observed that there was no evidence to support the assertion that individuals were being shot at, in the river, nor have there been any report from local communities regarding the discovery of corpses in the area."
"Consequently, the NA wishes to enjoin the public to disregard the unfounded claims and irredeemable falsehood being propagated by Simon Ekpa and his associates, whose apparent objective is to disseminate misinformation and incite unrest."
"The NA and indeed sister services and other security agencies remain steadfast in our commitment to maintaining peace and order, ensuring the safety and security of all citizens in the country. The Nigerian Army is vigilant and prepared to counter any attempt to destabilize the Southeast region."
'We reaffirm our dedication to protecting the lives and livelihoods of all Nigerians, and will continue to work tirelessly to uphold peace and order. We encourage the public to seek verified information and not be misled by those who aim to incite violence and disorder."
"We salute the courage and patriotism of well-meaning and law-abiding ndigbo, domiciled in the South East and across the nation, who despite the brazen atrocities and threats being perpetrated by Simon Ekpa and his terrorists group, have continued to build bridges of peace and harmony across the country and promoting our national ideal of a united Nigeria."
"The Nigerian Army remains a pillar of stability and security, committed to the well-being of the nation and her people." The statement concluded .
According to a statement signed by the Major General Onyema Neachukwu who is the Director, Army Public Relations said contrary to the falsehood being spread from the devious propaganda machinery of the desperate and self-serving terrorists' leader, the NA wishes to state that it has conducted a comprehensive investigation on the allegations made by Simon Ekpa and his associates.
"Accordingly, we wish to categorically refute these baseless claims by throwing more light on the occurrence. In the first instance, the troops in the video footage are not personnel of the Nigerian Army, as the insignia visible on their berets clearly identifies them as personnel of the Nigerian Navy, who were engaged in a routine test firing of a weapon system mounted on a vehicle and in order to ensure the safety of other road users and commuters, the troops took precautionary measures by temporarily halting vehicular movement along the route, until the test firing was safely concluded."
The statement added that observers were also kept at a safe distance, maintaining transparency and prioritizing the safety of all involved.
"Additionally, preliminary findings also indicate that the occurrence took place in the Southwest region of the country and not the Southeast as advertently portrayed by the false alarmist and propagandists. Furthermore, it was observed that there was no evidence to support the assertion that individuals were being shot at, in the river, nor have there been any report from local communities regarding the discovery of corpses in the area."
"Consequently, the NA wishes to enjoin the public to disregard the unfounded claims and irredeemable falsehood being propagated by Simon Ekpa and his associates, whose apparent objective is to disseminate misinformation and incite unrest."
"The NA and indeed sister services and other security agencies remain steadfast in our commitment to maintaining peace and order, ensuring the safety and security of all citizens in the country. The Nigerian Army is vigilant and prepared to counter any attempt to destabilize the Southeast region."
'We reaffirm our dedication to protecting the lives and livelihoods of all Nigerians, and will continue to work tirelessly to uphold peace and order. We encourage the public to seek verified information and not be misled by those who aim to incite violence and disorder."
"We salute the courage and patriotism of well-meaning and law-abiding ndigbo, domiciled in the South East and across the nation, who despite the brazen atrocities and threats being perpetrated by Simon Ekpa and his terrorists group, have continued to build bridges of peace and harmony across the country and promoting our national ideal of a united Nigeria."
"The Nigerian Army remains a pillar of stability and security, committed to the well-being of the nation and her people." The statement concluded .
The students, who were taken hostage by Kidnappers on 9 May 2024 were extricated from their abductors following coordinated search and rescue operations by the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies. The rescue mission took place in the dense forest near Oro Ago Village in Kwara State, where the students had been held captive by the terrorists.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Abdulsalam Ibrahim, assured Governor Ododo that the Nigerian Army and other collaborating security agencies remain committed to securing lives and property of law abiding citizens. He emphasized that the troops, in synergy with other security forces, have intensified their efforts to track down the kidnappers and bring them to justice.
Governor Ahmed Ododo expressed profound gratitude to the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their dedication and sacrifice in rescuing the students. He affirmed confidence in the capability of the security forces to secure the release of the remaining hostages. The Governor also reiterated the Kogi State Government's unwavering support for the security forces in the ongoing operations against terrorism and other criminalities in the state.
Accompanying the Governor at the handover ceremony were key state functionaries, including the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Alhaji Ali Bello, the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abdullahi Bello; and the Vice Chancellor of CUSTECH, Prof. Abdurahman Asipita.
The Nigerian Army calls on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest security agency, as collective efforts are crucial in the fight against terrorism and criminality in the region.
This successful rescue operation underscores the commitment of the Nigerian security forces to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
Source: NIGERIAN ARMY
The students, who were taken hostage by Kidnappers on 9 May 2024 were extricated from their abductors following coordinated search and rescue operations by the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies. The rescue mission took place in the dense forest near Oro Ago Village in Kwara State, where the students had been held captive by the terrorists.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Abdulsalam Ibrahim, assured Governor Ododo that the Nigerian Army and other collaborating security agencies remain committed to securing lives and property of law abiding citizens. He emphasized that the troops, in synergy with other security forces, have intensified their efforts to track down the kidnappers and bring them to justice.
Governor Ahmed Ododo expressed profound gratitude to the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their dedication and sacrifice in rescuing the students. He affirmed confidence in the capability of the security forces to secure the release of the remaining hostages. The Governor also reiterated the Kogi State Government's unwavering support for the security forces in the ongoing operations against terrorism and other criminalities in the state.
Accompanying the Governor at the handover ceremony were key state functionaries, including the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Alhaji Ali Bello, the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abdullahi Bello; and the Vice Chancellor of CUSTECH, Prof. Abdurahman Asipita.
The Nigerian Army calls on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest security agency, as collective efforts are crucial in the fight against terrorism and criminality in the region.
This successful rescue operation underscores the commitment of the Nigerian security forces to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
Source: NIGERIAN ARMY
The operation, which was initiated following an intense clearance mission by the collaborating troops and security operatives, uncovered the location of the kidnapped students through a swift and comprehensive search of the nearby forests and villages to locate the remaining abducted students.
The search efforts were concentrated along the Gbugu, Pategi, and Oro Ago Axis, including areas such as Babasango and Babanla. Consequently, the troops detected the movement of the terrorists, who were attempting to relocate their hostages. As troops approached the terrorists' location, the terrorists abandoned the students and fled into the forest. The rescued students have been safely evacuated and handed over to the authorities of Kogi State Government for further action and reunion with their families.
This operation underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to ensuring the safety and security of citizens, particularly in regions plagued by terrorists' activities. The swift and decisive action of the troops has not only saved lives but also sent a strong message to terrorist elements operating in the area.
The Nigerian Army enjoins the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency, as collective efforts are crucial in the fight against terrorism and criminality in the region.
Pictures:
 |
The operation, which was initiated following an intense clearance mission by the collaborating troops and security operatives, uncovered the location of the kidnapped students through a swift and comprehensive search of the nearby forests and villages to locate the remaining abducted students.
The search efforts were concentrated along the Gbugu, Pategi, and Oro Ago Axis, including areas such as Babasango and Babanla. Consequently, the troops detected the movement of the terrorists, who were attempting to relocate their hostages. As troops approached the terrorists' location, the terrorists abandoned the students and fled into the forest. The rescued students have been safely evacuated and handed over to the authorities of Kogi State Government for further action and reunion with their families.
This operation underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to ensuring the safety and security of citizens, particularly in regions plagued by terrorists' activities. The swift and decisive action of the troops has not only saved lives but also sent a strong message to terrorist elements operating in the area.
The Nigerian Army enjoins the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency, as collective efforts are crucial in the fight against terrorism and criminality in the region.
Pictures:
|
The troops' relentless operational activities have been pivotal in pressuring terrorist factions, leading to Kwalba's decision to surrender with his fighters . This development marks a crucial step in the ongoing fight against terrorism in Kaduna State and the broader region.
Kwalba is currently undergoing thorough profiling at a military facility. This process is expected to provide valuable insights that could aid in dismantling remaining terrorist networks.
The Nigerian Army will continue to demonstrate its commitment to restoring peace and security in the region. The surrender of a high-profile terrorist commander like Lawal Kwalba underscores the effectiveness of the ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
The troops' relentless operational activities have been pivotal in pressuring terrorist factions, leading to Kwalba's decision to surrender with his fighters . This development marks a crucial step in the ongoing fight against terrorism in Kaduna State and the broader region.
Kwalba is currently undergoing thorough profiling at a military facility. This process is expected to provide valuable insights that could aid in dismantling remaining terrorist networks.
The Nigerian Army will continue to demonstrate its commitment to restoring peace and security in the region. The surrender of a high-profile terrorist commander like Lawal Kwalba underscores the effectiveness of the ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
Lieutenant STEPHEN NWANKWO who is the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations for 22 Armoured Brigade in a statement said, thereafter, the Commander, 22 Brigade, Brigadier General, OF Williams formally handed over the rescued persons to Mr Shonibare, Chairman, Ifelodun Local Government Council at a brief ceremony.
The victims revealed that they were kidnapped on 15 May 2024 and expressed gratitude to the military for rescuing them from their captors. They urged the Nigerian Army (NA) to sustain efforts in the fight against all forms insecurity in across the country. Adding that troops timely intervention and bravery, saved them from a potentially deadly situation.
Speaking at the occasion, Brigadier General Williams assured the Chairman, Ifelodun LGA and the all good people of Kwara State that the NA would remain unrelenting in ridding the state of criminals, bandits and kidnappers. He emphasized the brigade’s readiness to continue to do its best and enjoined the people help useful and timely information to help the military and security agencies respond in conducting joint operations, which is in line with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS)’s Command Philosophy.
Source: Nigerian Army
Lieutenant STEPHEN NWANKWO who is the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations for 22 Armoured Brigade in a statement said, thereafter, the Commander, 22 Brigade, Brigadier General, OF Williams formally handed over the rescued persons to Mr Shonibare, Chairman, Ifelodun Local Government Council at a brief ceremony.
The victims revealed that they were kidnapped on 15 May 2024 and expressed gratitude to the military for rescuing them from their captors. They urged the Nigerian Army (NA) to sustain efforts in the fight against all forms insecurity in across the country. Adding that troops timely intervention and bravery, saved them from a potentially deadly situation.
Speaking at the occasion, Brigadier General Williams assured the Chairman, Ifelodun LGA and the all good people of Kwara State that the NA would remain unrelenting in ridding the state of criminals, bandits and kidnappers. He emphasized the brigade’s readiness to continue to do its best and enjoined the people help useful and timely information to help the military and security agencies respond in conducting joint operations, which is in line with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS)’s Command Philosophy.
Source: Nigerian Army
Major General Abubakar remarked that, the command vision and philosophy of the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa (OFR) and that of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen TA Lagbaja (NAM), were all clearly hinged on the significance of jointness, synergy and intelligence sharing in the defence of Nigeria. “If we're drawing from their philosophy and vision, we have no option but to work together as no one agency can do it alone. We must leverage on the strength of one another,” He noted.
He assured the CP of his resolve to continue to strengthen the existing relationship between the Military and the Police on the Plateau, most especially on the speedy prosecution of suspects.The GOC further solicited for seamless and prompt dissemination of information amongst the security agencies, so as to ensure immediate and fast response to emerging security threats.
While reiterating the Nigerian Army's zero tolerance for infractions amongst her personnel and other agencies, he emphasized that the job is not a one-man business as all agencies must work together in unison to enhance security. He further updated the CP on the joint kinetic and non- kinentic approaches such as stakeholders engagements, sensitization seminars and sporting activities as measures the Division and OPSH continually explore to consolidate on the relative peace achieved in the state and environs.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner Of Police(CP), Plateau State command, CP Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina disclosed that the visit was necessary to familiarise himself with other security agencies and also seek for strengthened collaboration, partnership and robust synergy which he said was key to mitigating crime and ensuring peace on the Plateau. Such a visit he averred will further encourage and also boost the already strong mutual relationship, intelligence and information sharing among security agencies.
The Police Chief commended the GOC/Commander OPSH for his milestone achievements, efforts and giant strides in restoring law and order in troubled areas of the State. He enjoined the GOC/Commander OPSH to sustain and strengthen the security architecture put in place so that the peace achieved would be sustained.
The visit was concluded with group photographs with the staff officers and Commanders of various units and formations under 3 Division and Plateau State Police Command
Source: NIGERIAN ARMY
Major General Abubakar remarked that, the command vision and philosophy of the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa (OFR) and that of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen TA Lagbaja (NAM), were all clearly hinged on the significance of jointness, synergy and intelligence sharing in the defence of Nigeria. “If we're drawing from their philosophy and vision, we have no option but to work together as no one agency can do it alone. We must leverage on the strength of one another,” He noted.
He assured the CP of his resolve to continue to strengthen the existing relationship between the Military and the Police on the Plateau, most especially on the speedy prosecution of suspects.The GOC further solicited for seamless and prompt dissemination of information amongst the security agencies, so as to ensure immediate and fast response to emerging security threats.
While reiterating the Nigerian Army's zero tolerance for infractions amongst her personnel and other agencies, he emphasized that the job is not a one-man business as all agencies must work together in unison to enhance security. He further updated the CP on the joint kinetic and non- kinentic approaches such as stakeholders engagements, sensitization seminars and sporting activities as measures the Division and OPSH continually explore to consolidate on the relative peace achieved in the state and environs.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner Of Police(CP), Plateau State command, CP Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina disclosed that the visit was necessary to familiarise himself with other security agencies and also seek for strengthened collaboration, partnership and robust synergy which he said was key to mitigating crime and ensuring peace on the Plateau. Such a visit he averred will further encourage and also boost the already strong mutual relationship, intelligence and information sharing among security agencies.
The Police Chief commended the GOC/Commander OPSH for his milestone achievements, efforts and giant strides in restoring law and order in troubled areas of the State. He enjoined the GOC/Commander OPSH to sustain and strengthen the security architecture put in place so that the peace achieved would be sustained.
The visit was concluded with group photographs with the staff officers and Commanders of various units and formations under 3 Division and Plateau State Police Command
Source: NIGERIAN ARMY
According to a statement signed by Major General ONYEMA NWACHUKWU who is the Director Army Public Relations, the Army Chief declared the partnership with NIGCOMSAT is crucial to provide reliable and secure communication services and enable the Nigerian Army (NA) to access a wide range of satellite-based services, including telecommunication, navigation, and surveillance, which will significantly improve its operational efficiency and effectiveness.
He described NIGCOMSAT products as top-notch and affirmed his desire to expand the frontier of cooperation and partnership that exists between NIGCOMSAT and the NA. The COAS also pledged to partner the Communication Company in the launching of its new satellite into space to improve NA operations.
She disclosed that NIGCOMSAT intends to launch a satellite into orbit, co-designed and dedicated to the Armed Forces to enhance the military's capabilities and contribute to bolstering military operations, taking into consideration the importance of the services the NA is rendering to the nation.
The NIGCOM boss acknowledged the long standing relations with the NA and the zeal of the NA in tackling security challenges in the country. She noted that the partnership between the duo is expected to have far-reaching implications for the country's military operations and national security as well as leverage satellite technology to drive economic growth and development.
According to a statement signed by Major General ONYEMA NWACHUKWU who is the Director Army Public Relations, the Army Chief declared the partnership with NIGCOMSAT is crucial to provide reliable and secure communication services and enable the Nigerian Army (NA) to access a wide range of satellite-based services, including telecommunication, navigation, and surveillance, which will significantly improve its operational efficiency and effectiveness.
He described NIGCOMSAT products as top-notch and affirmed his desire to expand the frontier of cooperation and partnership that exists between NIGCOMSAT and the NA. The COAS also pledged to partner the Communication Company in the launching of its new satellite into space to improve NA operations.
She disclosed that NIGCOMSAT intends to launch a satellite into orbit, co-designed and dedicated to the Armed Forces to enhance the military's capabilities and contribute to bolstering military operations, taking into consideration the importance of the services the NA is rendering to the nation.
The NIGCOM boss acknowledged the long standing relations with the NA and the zeal of the NA in tackling security challenges in the country. She noted that the partnership between the duo is expected to have far-reaching implications for the country's military operations and national security as well as leverage satellite technology to drive economic growth and development.
In pictures: Slovak president transported on hospital bed
Pictures have just been released of Robert Fico being transported on a hospital gurney.
The Slovak prime minister is covered by a white sheet.
Multiple emergency service workers are seen pushing the hospital bed after Mr Fico arrived at the Banska Bystrica Hospital after being transported via air ambulance.
Slovakia's government office said earlier (see our 3.07pm post) that Mr Fico is a life-threatening condition.
In pictures: Slovak president transported on hospital bed
Pictures have just been released of Robert Fico being transported on a hospital gurney.
The Slovak prime minister is covered by a white sheet.
Multiple emergency service workers are seen pushing the hospital bed after Mr Fico arrived at the Banska Bystrica Hospital after being transported via air ambulance.
Slovakia's government office said earlier (see our 3.07pm post) that Mr Fico is a life-threatening condition.