Troops Neutralise Militia After Failed Attempt to Disarm Soldier in Plateau
Troops of 3 Division and Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP) have neutralised an armed militia who attempted to disarm a soldier during a follow-up operation in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The incident followed the earlier arrest of the militia on 4 September 2025 at Kaskra, Ropp District, where he was caught in possession of an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and 11 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition. During interrogation, the suspect confessed to participating in multiple criminal activities in the Barkin Ladi general area and volunteered to lead troops to the hideout of his cohorts.
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According to Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer of JTF OPEP, troops subsequently launched a follow-up operation on 5 September 2025 to recover a cache of arms and ammunition from the hideout. However, in the course of the search, the militia made a desperate attempt to snatch the rifle of a soldier in a bid to escape custody.
“Troops acted swiftly and neutralised the militia in the process. His remains have been deposited in the morgue,” Major Zhakom said in a statement on Saturday.
The military spokesperson reiterated that troops under Operation Enduring Peace remain resolute in their determination to secure Plateau State and its environs from armed groups and criminal networks threatening peace in the region.
“Troops of 3 Division and JTF OPEP will not relent until the Joint Operations Area is fully secured,” the statement added.
The operation is part of the military’s ongoing offensive to intercept and dismantle militia groups in Plateau State, following renewed attacks in parts of Barkin Ladi and neighbouring areas.
By PRNigeria