Troops of 3 Division/Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Enduring Peace have neutralised an armed militia in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State after he attempted to disarm a soldier during a weapons recovery mission.
The incident occurred less than 24 hours after the suspect was apprehended at Kaskra community on 4 September 2025. He was arrested in possession of an AK-47 rifle and 11 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition. According to military sources, the suspect confessed to participating in multiple criminal activities in the Barkin Ladi area and volunteered to take security forces to his gang’s hideout where arms were allegedly kept.
Acting on this lead, troops of 3 Division/JTF launched a follow-up operation on 5 September. During the search, however, the suspect reportedly made a desperate attempt to seize a soldier’s rifle in a bid to escape custody. The troops reacted swiftly, neutralising him on the spot. His remains have since been deposited in a morgue.
Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer of Operation Enduring Peace, confirmed the development in a statement, stressing that troops remain committed to eradicating armed criminal elements across Plateau State and the wider Joint Operations Area.
He assured residents that the military would continue to take proactive measures to ensure lasting peace and security in the region, while warning criminal groups that the days of impunity were over.
Operation Enduring Peace, launched to address insecurity in Plateau and adjoining states, has in recent months intensified its crackdown on bandits, militias, and other armed groups responsible for attacks on communities and travellers in the North-Central region.
