January 3, 2026 | Plateau State
In a decisive show of military strength and intelligence-led operations, troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, operating under the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP), successfully thwarted a planned attack on communities in Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State. The operation led to the neutralisation of five suspected bandits and the recovery of multiple weapons and ammunition, the military confirmed on Saturday.
According to a statement issued by Capt. Joshua Atu John, Acting Media Information Officer of JTF OPEP, the operation was conducted in the early hours of January 1, following credible intelligence that a group of armed bandits had mobilised in the Dutsen Zaki–Odare Forest axis with the intention of attacking neighbouring communities. Acting swiftly, troops laid an ambush along the suspected route, engaging the assailants in a firefight that left five bandits dead, while others reportedly fled into the forest.
Items recovered from the scene included two AK-47 rifle magazines loaded with 11 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, two machetes, and one knife, further corroborating the threat posed by the bandits. The military said follow-up operations were ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and ensure they are brought to justice.
The General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, JTF OPEP, Maj. Gen. EF Oyinlola, commended the troops for their courage and professionalism. He reassured residents of Plateau State and surrounding areas of the military’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and protecting property. Maj. Gen. Oyinlola urged the public to maintain strong cooperation with security agencies by providing timely and credible information, describing such collaboration as critical to sustaining peace and stability in the state.
The military also issued a stern warning to criminals operating within the Joint Operations Area (JOA). “All forms of criminality, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and attacks on innocent civilians, will be met with decisive military action,” the statement read. Troops remain on high alert, ready to respond to any threats, and have vowed to ensure that Plateau State communities are protected from violent criminal elements.
Residents have expressed relief at the swift military response, highlighting the growing confidence in the army’s ability to contain insecurity in the region. Local leaders also urged continued vigilance and cooperation with security personnel to prevent further attacks.
This operation is part of Operation Peace Shield, a sustained offensive initiative by the Nigerian Army aimed at denying criminals freedom of movement within the Joint Operations Area and ensuring that communities across Plateau State and beyond are secure.
With insecurity on the rise in several parts of Nigeria, this latest success by JTF OPEP underscores the importance of intelligence-driven operations, proactive patrolling, and community collaboration in combating violent criminal activities.
