Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace have neutralised a suspected bandit during an ambush in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The task force spokesman, Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, confirmed the operation in a statement on Wednesday. He said the ambush, carried out on September 16, was based on credible intelligence.
“On 16th September, troops in Plateau State made contact with bandits mounted on motorcycles heading towards Odare Forest in Wase LGA and neutralised one of them, while others fled with severe gunshot wounds through the thick forest,” Zhakom explained.
He disclosed that soldiers recovered a motorcycle, two mobile phones, a machete, and charms abandoned by the fleeing bandits.
The spokesman further revealed that a separate operation was conducted on September 15 around Garga, Showaka, Yuli, and Kukawa villages in Wase and Kanam LGAs.
“During the operation, troops dealt decisively with elements of bandits through superior firepower, forcing them to flee in disarray. Items recovered included one G3 rifle, one magazine and three rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition,” he said.
Zhakom stressed that the recent offensives reflect the military’s determination to restrict criminal groups and deny them freedom of action.
“The recent onslaughts and bombardment of criminal elements, especially bandits in the Joint Operations Area, is part of Operation Enduring Peace’s resolve to neutralise armed criminals and bring perpetrators of crimes to justice,” he added.
The Nigerian Army reiterated that it would sustain its operations until banditry and other security threats in the region are decisively curtailed.
