Troops K”ll Terrorists, Arrest Kidnap Suspect in Major Plateau Security Sweep
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
Troops under Operation ENDURING PEACE have intensified offensive operations in Plateau State, neutralizing suspected terrorists, arresting a kidnap suspect, and dismantling criminal hideouts in a series of coordinated clearance missions across multiple local government areas.
The operations were disclosed in a statement issued by Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, who detailed the outcomes of the security crackdown carried out between April 4 and 5, 2026.
According to the statement, troops operating under Operation WUTAN DAJI recorded a major success in Wase Local Government Area during a joint mission with local vigilantes targeting insurgent strongholds in the Dutsen Zaki forest.
“While traversing the Babangida–Adua road, the joint force engaged in a fierce firefight with a group of armed terrorists. The superior firepower of the troops resulted in the immediate neutralization of two suspects, while several others retreated into the dense forest with gunshot wounds,” Oteh said.
He added that troops recovered weapons and ammunition from the scene, including a locally fabricated firearm, a belt containing 105 rounds of 7.62mm PKT ammunition, 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and a cutlass.
In a separate operation in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area, troops acting on intelligence intercepted four suspected terrorists in the Namu District during the early hours of April 5.
“The rapid mobilization of the unit led to the successful interception of four suspected terrorists… found to be in possession of 100 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition,” he stated.
Oteh further disclosed that during follow-up operations to dismantle the suspects’ hideout, troops came under heavy attack, leading to a chaotic exchange of gunfire.
“Amidst the ensuing chaos, three of the four apprehended suspects attempted to escape and were subsequently neutralized by the adversary’s own gunfire,” he explained.
In another development, troops in Shendam Local Government Area, working with local residents, arrested a suspected kidnapper at Gidan Mangoro village.
“The individual is alleged to be linked to a kidnapping incident that occurred in the area on 3 April 2026. Suspects are currently in custody for further investigation and legal action,” Oteh added.
The military emphasized that the operations reflect its sustained commitment to restoring peace and stability in Plateau State.
“These operations underscore the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian military and its local partners to restoring peace and security… citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities,” the statement concluded.
