As part of ongoing operations to rid Plateau State of criminal elements, troops of Operation Enduring Peace have neutralised several suspected terrorists, arrested a suspected gun runner, and recovered locally fabricated rifles in separate operations across the state.
Troops of Sector 6 launched an operation at Gero High Ground in Jos South Local Government Area following intelligence on the activities of suspected terrorists.
According to the Joint Task Force, the troops came under fire on arrival but received reinforcements, forcing the suspects to retreat. During the ensuing pursuit, some of the suspected terrorists were neutralised while others escaped. Troops have continued combing the area to dismantle the criminals’ hideouts.
In a related development, troops of Sector 5 intercepted a motorcycle conveying two passengers from Kuba District in Bokkos Local Government Area to Maijanki in Barkin Ladi.
The passengers reportedly abandoned a bag and fled into nearby bushes after sighting a military checkpoint. Troops recovered three locally fabricated rifles from the bag and arrested the motorcycle rider, who is currently in custody alongside the recovered weapons and motorcycle for further investigation.
In another operation on June 30, troops acting on intelligence ambushed suspected terrorists who gathered around the Rafin Bauna-Gero mountains in Jos South Local Government Area.
The military says five suspected terrorists were neutralised, while others fled. Preliminary assessments indicate that some of those killed were on the military’s wanted list for alleged involvement in attacks in Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.
On July 1, troops on guard duty at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, repelled an attack by suspected terrorists who allegedly breached the facility’s perimetre fence under the cover of darkness.
The troops engaged the attackers, neutralising one suspect while others escaped. The recovered arms and ammunition are in custody, while the body of the deceased suspect has been handed over to the police for further action.
Operation Enduring Peace says it remains committed to sustaining offensive operations aimed at protecting lives and property and restoring lasting peace across its area of responsibility.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
