In a significant boost to security efforts, troops of the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) have dealt heavy blows to criminal elements in Kaduna and Plateau States. Over a three-day period from December 11 to 13, 2025, coordinated military operations under Operation PEACE SHIELD led to the elimination of kidnappers, the rescue of abducted citizens, and the foiling of planned attacks.
Major Offensive in Kaduna's Jema'a LGA
According to a statement released on Monday, December 15, 2025, by the Media Information Officer, Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, the successes began on December 11. Troops from Sector 5 launched an offensive clearance operation in Dangoma and Godogodo villages within Jema'a Local Government Area of Kaduna State. This action was a direct response to persistent kidnapping incidents terrorizing the communities.
During the raid, soldiers engaged the criminals in a firefight. The encounter resulted in three notorious kidnappers being neutralised. Other gang members fled the scene with gunshot wounds, and troops are actively pursuing them.
Covert Ops and Foiled Attacks
The momentum continued on December 12 in Plateau State. Troops of Sector 1 conducted a covert operation targeting a high-profile criminal known for banditry, kidnapping, and gunrunning in Bassa and Jos North LGAs. The suspect was intercepted along the Jebbu – Gada Biu road in Bassa LGA.
He opened fire on the troops but was swiftly taken out. Recovered items from his possession include:
- One pistol
- 9 rounds of 9mm ammunition
- One dagger
- One mobile phone
- A large sum of money
Furthermore, on December 13, troops acting on intelligence swiftly moved to Gidan-Saki Village in Zangon Kataf LGA of Kaduna State, where an attack was imminent. Their prompt response forced the assailants to abandon their mission and retreat into nearby bushes. Operations to apprehend them are ongoing.
Successful Ambush Leads to Rescue of Four
In a related operation on the same day, troops stationed at Jengre in Plateau State responded to the kidnapping of four persons at Rimi Village, Jere District, Bassa LGA. The soldiers laid a well-coordinated ambush along the suspected withdrawal route of the bandits.
A firefight ensued upon contact, which pressured the kidnappers into abandoning their victims and fleeing. One kidnapper was neutralised during the encounter, and all four victims were rescued alive and unharmed.
Items recovered from this operation include:
- One AK-47 rifle
- One magazine
- 13 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition
The rescued victims have been debriefed and safely reunited with their families. The Joint Task Force has reiterated its commitment to sustaining pressure on all criminal elements to ensure the safety and security of law-abiding citizens across its area of operations.
