By Harriet Tornguvan
Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE, operating under the special mandate of Operation WUTAN DAJI, have recorded significant successes in ongoing clearance operations across Plateau State, neutralising suspected terrorists, dismantling criminal hideouts, and arresting a suspected kidnapper.
According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, the coordinated operations were carried out on April 4, 2026, in collaboration with local vigilantes in Wase Local Government Area.
The troops targeted identified insurgent routes spanning Babangida, Adua, and Bokayi villages within the Dutsen Zaki forest. During the operation, security forces engaged a group of armed terrorists along the Babangida Adua road in a fierce gun battle. The troops reportedly overpowered the assailants, neutralising two suspects, while others fled into the forest with gunshot wounds.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of weapons and ammunition, 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 on April 5, 2026, troops deployed in Namu District of Qua’an Pan Local Government Area intercepted four suspected terrorists following credible intelligence on suspicious movements in the area. The suspects were found in possession of 100 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
However, while troops advanced to dismantle the suspects’ hideout, they came under heavy attack from armed accomplices. In the ensuing exchange, three of the arrested suspects attempted to escape and were reportedly killed by gunfire from their own associates.
Meanwhile, in Shendam Local Government Area, troops working alongside local residents apprehended a suspected kidnapper at Gidan Mangoro village at about 9:35 a.m. on the same day. The suspect is believed to be connected to a kidnapping incident reported in the area on April 3, 2026, and is currently in custody for further investigation.
The military authorities said the operations underscore their sustained commitment, alongside local partners, to restoring peace and security in Plateau State. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies as clearance operations continue.
