By Joy Odor, Abuja
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE have dealt another devastating blow to bandits terrorising Plateau State, killing one, forcing others to flee with gunshot wounds, and seizing weapons, motorcycles, and charms in a daring ambush.
According to Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer of Operation ENDURING PEACE in a press statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Wednesday informed that the operation, carried out on 16 September 2025, was based on actionable intelligence that bandits were moving along routes leading to Odare Forest, Dutsen Zaki, in Wase LGA.
Soldiers swiftly laid an ambush, engaging the gunmen mounted on motorcycles. One was neutralised instantly, while others escaped into the forest in disarray, leaving behind critical equipment.
Recovered items include a motorcycle, two mobile phones, a machete, and fetish charms now in military custody for further analysis.
In a separate raid a day earlier, troops stormed notorious bandit hideouts and crossing points across Garga, Showaka, Yuli, and Kukawa villages in Wase and Kanam LGAs.
The offensive triggered a fierce firefight, with soldiers unleashing superior firepower that forced the criminals to scatter.
After the clash, troops recovered a G3 rifle, a loaded magazine, and 3 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, further weakening the firepower of the fleeing terrorists.
He said the renewed onslaught is part of the military’s resolve to deny bandits freedom of action and dismantle their networks across the Joint Operations Area.
“Troops remain resolute in neutralising armed criminals and ensuring perpetrators of crimes are brought to justice.
These operations demonstrate our commitment to restoring peace and stability in Plateau and beyond,” he declared.
The daring ambushes and raids underscore the military’s offensive momentum against armed groups, as Operation ENDURING PEACE continues to press forward with precision, firepower, and intelligence-led strikes.
