Troops Foil Bandit Attack in Plateau, Kill Five, Recover Arms

T Troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, under the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), have successfully foiled a planned bandit attack on communities in Plateau State, neutralising five bandits and recovering arms and ammunition during an early-morning operation.

The operation, conducted in the early hours of January 1, 2026, was part of the ongoing Operation PEACE SHIELD, aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of action within the Joint Operations Area (JOA).

According to a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer of JTF OPEP, Captain Joshua John, troops acting on credible intelligence laid an ambush after bandits mobilised from Dutsen Zaki toward Odare Forest in Wase Local Government Area, with the intention of attacking nearby communities.

“During the firefight, troops neutralised five bandits, while others fled with gunshot wounds,” the statement said.
Items recovered from the scene include two AK-47 rifle magazines containing 11 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, two machetes, and one knife. Troops are currently pursuing the fleeing suspects to prevent regrouping or further attacks.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General EF Oyinlola, reassured residents of Plateau State and other areas within the division’s Area of Responsibility of the military’s resolve to protect lives and property.
“Law-abiding citizens should remain calm and continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information,” the GOC urged.

He also issued a stern warning to criminal elements operating within the JOA, stressing that troops remain vigilant and fully prepared to respond decisively to any threats to peace and stability in Plateau State.

The Nigerian Army says sustained offensive operations will continue as part of broader efforts to restore lasting peace across the state.