By Bavoriat Clara
Troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, under the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), have neutralised five bandits during an intelligence-led ambush in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The operation, conducted in the early hours of Thursday, 1 January 2026, followed sustained offensive actions under the ongoing Operation PEACE SHIELD aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of action within the Joint Operations Area (JOA). The troops engaged bandits who had mobilised from Dutsen Zaki towards Odare Forest with the intention of attacking nearby communities.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer, JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, Captain Joshua Atu John, the troops made contact with the criminals during the ambush, resulting in a firefight in which five bandits were neutralised, while others fled with gunshot wounds.
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 bandits to prevent further attacks in the area.
The General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Nigerian Army, and Commander of JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General EF Oyinlola, assured law-abiding residents of Plateau State and other areas of responsibility of the military’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property. He also urged members of the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies.
The military further warned criminals operating within the JOA to desist from all unlawful activities or face decisive action, stressing that troops remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any threat to peace and stability in Plateau State.
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