Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division, operating under the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP), have successfully prevented a planned attack on several communities in Plateau State, killing five suspected bandits and recovering weapons during the operation.
The military disclosed on Saturday that the operation was conducted in the early hours of January 1 as part of sustained offensive actions under Operation Peace Shield, aimed at restricting the movement of criminal elements within the Joint Operations Area (JOA).
In a statement issued by Capt. Joshua Atu John, Acting Media Information Officer, JTF Operation Enduring Peace, the troops acted on credible intelligence indicating that armed bandits had assembled with the intention of attacking nearby communities.
According to the statement, soldiers laid an ambush along the Dutsen Zaki–Odare Forest axis in Wase Local Government Area, where the suspected bandits were believed to be mobilising for the attack.
The encounter led to a fierce exchange of gunfire, during which five bandits were neutralised, while several others escaped into the surrounding forest.
Items recovered from the scene included two AK-47 rifle magazines containing 11 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, two machetes and one knife.
Troops are currently conducting follow-up operations to track down the fleeing suspects.
The General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace, Maj. Gen. EF Oyinlola, assured law-abiding residents of Plateau State and other areas within the division’s Area of Responsibility of the military’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
He urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, noting that such cooperation remains vital to sustaining peace and stability in the state.
The military also warned criminals operating within the Joint Operations Area to desist from all illegal activities or face decisive military action, stressing that troops remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any security threats in Plateau State.
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