Troops Eliminate Notorious Militia Leader, Several Bandits, Rescue 2 Hostages in Plateau
Troops have recorded major operational successes in Plateau State, neutralising a notorious militia leader and two armed bandits, while rescuing two kidnapped victims in separate operations across Barkin Ladi and Kanam Local Government Areas.
Security sources revealed that the troops neutralised the militia kingpin, identified as Idris Idris, popularly known as Babawo Badoo, during a security operation in Barkin Ladi.
PRNigeria learnt that, the operation followed the arrest of the suspect and recovery of arms and ammunition at the outskirts of Lugere Village on October 20. Preliminary interrogation revealed that Idris had been involved in several attacks within Barkin Ladi and neighbouring communities.
He reportedly confessed to leading a network of armed collaborators and volunteered to guide troops to their hideout in Kassa Village. However, while leading the troops to the location around 10:20 p.m. on Tuesday, the suspect allegedly attempted to snatch a soldier’s rifle in a desperate bid to escape. The troops swiftly responded, neutralising him on the spot.
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A follow-up operation is said to be ongoing to apprehend his accomplices and recover additional weapons linked to the group. Security forces have also intensified patrols in Barkin Ladi to forestall possible reprisal attacks and ensure the safety of residents.
In a separate operation, troops of Sector 2, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), rescued two kidnapped victims and neutralised two suspected kidnappers in Kanam Local Government Area.
Sources said the troops launched the operation following the abduction of two persons along the Wanka–Dengi road. Acting on intelligence, the troops tracked a relative of one of the victims who had been instructed by the kidnappers to drop a ransom at Madam Forest.
“During the rescue operation, troops made contact with the kidnappers, resulting in the neutralisation of two armed bandits, while others fled into the forest,” one of the sources said.
The rescued victims were safely evacuated, while efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and dismantle their hideouts.
The latest operations underscore the sustained resolve of security forces to curb the activities of criminal gangs and restore peace across Plateau State and the wider North Central region.
By PRNigeria
