Troops Neutralize 10 Terrorists, Seize Weapons and Fuel in Plateau Operation
In a significant security breakthrough, troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE, in collaboration with local vigilante groups, have neutralized ten suspected terrorists during coordinated clearance operations in Plateau State. The operation, which took place on April 9, 2026, targeted terrorist elements in Wase and Kanam Local Government Areas, resulting in the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and logistics supplies.
Strategic Engagement and Neutralization
According to a statement released by Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE, the operation was part of the ongoing offensive clearance initiative codenamed Operation WUTAN DAJI. The engagement commenced at approximately 8:30 a.m., with troops establishing strategic blocking positions between Dutsen Zaki and the Odare Forest.
During the operation, troops encountered a large group of terrorists mounted on motorcycles moving along a known transit route. The security forces swiftly engaged the criminals with a superior and well-coordinated volume of fire, overwhelming them despite initial resistance. This decisive action led to the neutralization of ten terrorists, while others fled into the surrounding forest, leaving behind casualties.
Recovery of Weapons and Logistics
The operation yielded significant recoveries, including lethal hardware and intelligence materials abandoned by the fleeing terrorist elements. Among the items recovered were:
- Three AK-47 rifles
- Three AK-47 magazines
- Eight rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
- Two motorcycles
- Five 25-litre jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), intended for terrorist logistics
Additionally, troops recovered a National Identity Card and a photograph belonging to the suspects, providing valuable leads for ongoing investigations. These recoveries mark a critical step in degrading the operational capacity of armed groups within the region.
Swift Response to Isolated Attacks
In a related development, following reports of an isolated attack on commuters along the Razat and Kafi Abu axis, troops initiated a swift and comprehensive offensive targeting the criminal elements responsible for the disturbance. Upon initial encounter, the perpetrators withdrew into the surrounding hinterlands, prompting an immediate pursuit by security forces to restore peace and security.
Troops conducted rigorous cordon and search operations across Suma Suga and Takwok villages, as well as the adjacent mountainous terrain, as part of a series of coordinated maneuvers. These tactical efforts further disrupted terrorist activities and enhanced intelligence gathering.
Ongoing Pursuit and Commitment to Security
Captain Oteh emphasized that troops remain on high alert and are currently in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists and their collaborators. Operation ENDURING PEACE will continue to intensify clearance operations, dominating various identified flashpoints to guarantee the safety of lives and property of citizens. This successful engagement underscores the military's unwavering commitment to restoring security along identified terrorist corridors in Plateau State.
The operation highlights the effectiveness of joint efforts between the military and local vigilante groups in combating terrorism, with ongoing investigations leveraging the recovered materials to further dismantle terrorist networks in the region.
