Troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, operating under the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), have thwarted a planned attack on communities in Plateau State, neutralising several bandits and recovering arms and ammunition.
The operation, which formed part of the ongoing Operation PEACE SHIELD, was carried out in the early hours of January 1, 2026, following sustained efforts to deny criminal elements freedom of action within the Joint Operations Area (JOA).
According to the Acting Media Information Officer of JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, Captain Joshua John, the troops executed an intelligence-led ambush after receiving credible information that bandits had mobilised from Dutsen Zaki towards the Odare Forest in Wase Local Government Area with the intention of attacking neighbouring communities.
“During the ambush operation, troops made contact with the bandits and, in the ensuing firefight, five of them were neutralised, while others fled with gunshot injuries,” Captain John stated.
He added that 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, he said, are currently on the trail of the fleeing suspects to prevent any regrouping or further attacks.
Reacting to the successful operation, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General EF Oyinlola, reassured residents of Plateau State and other areas within the task force’s Area of Responsibility of the military’s continued commitment to their safety.
“Law-abiding residents should be assured that the 3 Division and JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE remain resolute in safeguarding lives and property across the Area of Responsibility,” Maj. Gen. Oyinlola said. “We urge members of the public to continue to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information.”
He also issued a stern warning to criminal elements operating within the Joint Operations Area, urging them to abandon all illegal activities or face decisive military action.
“Troops remain vigilant, prepared, and determined to respond decisively to any threat to peace and stability in Plateau State,” the commander warned.
The military says the operation underscores its resolve to sustain pressure on bandits and other criminal groups in order to ensure lasting peace and security across the state.
