Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP), have recorded significant operational successes against criminal elements in Kaduna and Plateau states, neutralising kidnappers, rescuing abducted victims and foiling attempted attacks during coordinated operations conducted between December 11 and 13, 2025.
The operations were confirmed in a statement signed by the Media Information Officer, JTF Operation Enduring Peace, Major Samson Nantip Zhakom.
In Kaduna State, troops of Sector 5 (Sub-Sector 4) on December 11 carried out an offensive clearance operation on identified kidnappers’ hideouts in Dangoma and Godogodo villages, Jema’a Local Government Area, following persistent reports of abductions in the area. The troops engaged the criminals in a gun battle, during which three notorious kidnappers were neutralised. Other members of the gang escaped with gunshot wounds, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend them.
Similarly, on December 12, troops of Sector 1 (Sub-Sector 1) conducted a covert operation targeting a notorious bandit, kidnapper and gunrunner linked to multiple cases of kidnapping and armed robbery in Bassa and Jos North local government areas of Plateau State. The suspect was intercepted along the Jebbu–Gada Biu road in Bassa LGA. He reportedly opened fire on sighting the troops but was swiftly neutralised. Items recovered from him include a pistol, nine rounds of 9mm ammunition, a dagger, a mobile phone and a large sum of money.
On December 13, troops also responded swiftly to intelligence indicating an impending attack on Gidan-Saki Village in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The prompt response forced the criminals to abandon their mission and flee into nearby bushes, with troops currently pursuing the suspects.
In a related operation on the same day, troops of Sector 1 deployed at Jengre in Plateau State conducted an ambush following the kidnapping of four persons at Rimi Village, Jere District, Bassa LGA. The troops intercepted the kidnappers along their withdrawal route, leading to a gunfight that compelled the criminals to abandon the victims and flee. One kidnapper was neutralised during the encounter, while all four victims were rescued unharmed. Recovered items include an AK-47 rifle, one magazine and 13 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition.
The rescued victims have since been debriefed and reunited with their families, while efforts continue to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
JTF Operation Enduring Peace reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal elements and ensuring the safety and security of residents across the joint operations area.
