Troops Rescue Two Kidnapped Victims, Arrest Suspected Gun Runner in Plateau Operation
In a significant security breakthrough, troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) have successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and arrested a suspected gun runner in separate operations across Plateau and Kaduna States. The developments were disclosed by Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE, in a statement issued on March 3, 2026.
Rescue Operation in Plateau State
According to the statement, troops deployed at Wase in Plateau State conducted an aggressive fighting patrol in the Kukawa area of Kanam Local Government Area. During this operation, they made contact with criminals who were transporting the victims to their hideouts. Upon sighting the troops, the kidnappers immediately abandoned the victims and fled into nearby bushes, allowing for a swift rescue.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the two rescued individuals were originally abducted at gunpoint on February 22, 2026, from Mansur village in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State. The victims have since been debriefed by security personnel, and efforts are currently underway to reunite them with their families.
Troops have continued combing the surrounding bushes in a determined effort to apprehend the fleeing criminals and potentially rescue other abducted victims who may still be in captivity. This operation is part of the ongoing deliberate efforts and decisive offensive against criminal elements terrorizing innocent citizens within the Joint Operations Area (JOA).
Arrest of Suspected Gun Runner in Kaduna State
In a related development, troops of OPEP deployed at Sanga in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State successfully intercepted a suspected gun runner during a stop-and-search operation at Kurmin Goro village. The 36-year-old suspect, identified as Vincent Ibrahim, was apprehended while conveying five fabricated rifles to an undisclosed location in Kafanchan.
The suspect is currently in troops custody and undergoing intensive interrogation to gather further intelligence on his activities and possible networks. This arrest highlights the vigilance and proactive measures being taken by security forces to curb the illicit flow of weapons that often fuel criminal activities in the region.
Leadership Commendation and Assurance
Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE, commended the troops for their alertness and decisive actions during these operations. He emphasized the unwavering commitment of the security forces to the protection of lives and properties across the affected areas.
The successful rescue and arrest underscore the effectiveness of coordinated military efforts in addressing security challenges in Nigeria's volatile regions. As operations continue, authorities remain focused on dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety of citizens, with ongoing patrols and intelligence-driven initiatives aimed at preventing future incidents.
