TROOPS SMASH CATTLE RUSTLING SYNDICATE, RECOVER ARMS IN PLATEAU STATE

Troops of 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) have dealt a major blow to criminal networks in Plateau State with the arrest of two notorious cattle rustlers and the recovery of dangerous weapons during a raid.

In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, the intelligence-driven operation was carried out on 11 September 2025 at Kogul Village in Mangu Local Government Area.

The operation targeted a hideout linked to a syndicate responsible for cattle rustling, a crime that often fuels violent crises in the Joint Operations Area.

The troops arrested two key suspects and recovered the following items:

One AK-47 rifle

One AK-47 magazine

One fabricated revolver rifle

Ten rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition

One mobile phone

An undisclosed amount of cash.

Major Zhakom noted that the suspects and recovered items are in the custody of troops for further investigation. He added that follow-up operations are ongoing to track down other members of the criminal gang.

The military described the operation as a significant step in addressing the triggers of insecurity in the region and reaffirmed the commitment of 3 Division/JTF OPEP to protecting lives and property while ensuring lasting peace across Plateau State and the wider Joint Operations Area.