In a pre-dawn operation, Nigerian Army troops foiled a planned bandit attack on communities in Plateau State on New Year’s Day, killing five assailants and recovering weapons.
The ambush, carried out by troops of the 3 Division/Joint Task Force, Operation ENDURING PEACE, was based on intelligence that bandits had mobilized from Dutsen Zaki toward Odare Forest in Wase Local Government Area with the intent to raid adjoining villages.
During the firefight early Wednesday, the troops neutralized five of the attackers while others fled into the forest. Items recovered from the scene included:
· Two AK-47 rifle magazines containing 11 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition
· Two machetes
· One knife
Military authorities confirmed that troops are currently pursuing the fleeing suspects.
The General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of the Joint Task Force, Major General EF Oyinlola, reassured residents of the ongoing efforts to secure lives and property within the region.
“We remain vigilant and committed to safeguarding all law-abiding citizens,” Maj. Gen. Oyinlola stated. He also urged the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
The military issued a stern warning to criminal elements operating in the area, urging them to cease activities or “face decisive military action.”
This successful operation forms part of the ongoing Operation Peace Shield, aimed at denying bandits and other criminal groups freedom of movement across the Joint Operations Area.
No civilian casualties were reported.
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