By Joy Odor, Abuja
In a major breakthrough against banditry, troops of 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP) have arrested two notorious cattle rustlers in Plateau State, recovering dangerous weapons and ammunition in the process.
The raid, carried out on Thursday, September 11, 2025, followed credible intelligence that led soldiers to the suspects’ hideout at Kogul Village, Mangu Local Government Area.
Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer of JTF OPEP, confirmed in a press statement that the operation yielded the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, a loaded magazine, a fabricated revolver rifle, 10 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, a mobile phone, and cash.
He said the arrested suspects are currently in military custody for further investigation, while troops have launched follow-up operations to track down other fleeing members of the criminal gang.
Military authorities described the arrest as a significant step toward dismantling cattle rustling networks that have fueled violence and instability in Plateau and neighbouring states.
“The operation is pivotal in tackling the triggers of crisis, and our troops remain resolute in flushing out criminal elements threatening peace in the Joint Operations Area,” the statement added
