Troops Neutralize Two Terror Suspects, Arrest Kidnapper in Plateau Raids

Troops Neutralize Two Terror Suspects, Arrest Kidnapper in Plateau Raids

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE have neutralised two suspected terrorists, arrested a kidnap suspect, and dismantled criminal hideouts in a series of coordinated operations across Plateau State.

The operations, conducted under the mandate of Operation WUTAN DAJI, targeted insurgent strongholds in Wase, Qua’an Pan and Shendam Local Government Areas, according to a statement signed on Monday by the Media Information Officer, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh.

In one of the operations carried out on April 4, troops, in collaboration with local vigilantes, launched clearance raids in Babangida, Adua and Bokayi communities within the Dutsen Zaki forest in Wase LGA.

During the mission, security forces encountered armed terrorists along the Babangida–Adua road, leading to a gun battle.

“The superior firepower of the troops resulted in the immediate neutralisation of two suspects, while several others retreated into the dense forest with gunshot wounds,” the statement said.

A search of the area led to the recovery of weapons and ammunition, including a locally fabricated firearm, 105 rounds of 7.62mm PKT ammunition, 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and a cutlass.

In a separate operation on April 5 in Namu District of Qua’an Pan LGA, troops acting on intelligence intercepted four suspected terrorists allegedly moving with arms.

The statement said the suspects were found in possession of 100 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

However, during a follow-up operation to locate their hideout, troops came under heavy attack from other members of the group. In the ensuing chaos, three of the arrested suspects attempted to escape and were killed by gunfire from their associates.

In another development, troops in Shendam LGA, working with local residents, arrested a suspected kidnapper at Gidan Mangoro village. The suspect is believed to be linked to a kidnapping incident reported in the area on April 3.

The military said the suspect is currently in custody and will face further investigation and prosecution.

“These operations underscore the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian military and its local partners to restoring peace and security in Plateau State,” the statement added.

The task force urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations.