Troops Neutralise Five Terrorists, Arrest Suspected Kidnapper in Plateau

Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have killed five suspected terrorists and arrested a suspected kidnapper during coordinated security operations in Plateau State.

The Joint Task Force said the operations, carried out in collaboration with local vigilantes, targeted criminal hideouts in Babangida, Adua, and Bokayi villages within the Dutsen Zaki forest, spanning parts of Wase, Qua’an Pan, and Shendam local government areas.

Spokesman of the task force, Captain Chinonso Oteh, disclosed that troops engaged the suspects in intense combat, resulting in the immediate neutralisation of two individuals, while others fled into the forest with gunshot wounds.

He explained that during follow-up operations to dismantle the hideouts, troops came under heavy attack from fleeing insurgents. In the ensuing chaos, three of the four initially arrested suspects attempted to escape but were killed by gunfire from their own associates.

Oteh added that security operatives also intercepted armed elements along the Babangida-Adua road, leading to another fierce exchange.

Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the scene, including a locally fabricated firearm and more than 100 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.

The latest security crackdown comes amid renewed violence in Plateau State, with recent attacks reported in parts of Jos North and Jos South, heightening concerns among residents.

Authorities say deployments have been reinforced across troubled areas, with sustained clearance operations underway to dismantle criminal networks.

The intensified operations also follow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to the state, where he assured residents of improved security and directed agencies to take decisive action to restore lasting peace.