Troops Ambush Bandits, Recover Weapons in Plateau State

Troops of the 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) have intensified their operations against bandits in Plateau State, recording fresh successes in Wase and Kanam Local Government Areas.

According to a statement by the Media Information Officer of JTF OPEP, Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, the troops on 16 September 2025 conducted an intelligence-led ambush along routes leading to Odare Forest at Dutsen Zaki in Wase LGA. During the operation, the troops engaged bandits on motorcycles, neutralising one, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

Items recovered from the scene included a motorcycle, two mobile phones, a machete, and charms, which are now in custody for further investigation.

In a separate operation a day earlier, on 15 September, troops acting on credible intelligence launched an offensive against bandits operating around Garga, Showaka, Yuli, and Kukawa villages in Wase and Kanam LGAs. The troops overpowered the criminals with superior firepower, forcing them to flee in disarray.

Troops subsequently recovered a G3 rifle, a G3 magazine, and three rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition during the exploitation of the area.

Major Zhakom noted that the operations are part of the Division’s renewed commitment to deny bandits freedom of action and ensure armed criminals are neutralised. He added that troops remain focused on dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace across Plateau State.