Troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, operating under the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP), have successfully foiled a planned bandit attack on communities in Plateau State, neutralising five assailants and recovering weapons and ammunition.

The military said the operation took place in the early hours of January 1 as part of ongoing offensive actions under Operation Peace Shield, aimed at restricting the movement of criminal elements in the Joint Operations Area (JOA).

Acting on credible intelligence, troops set up an ambush along the Dutsen Zaki–Odare Forest axis in Wase Local Government Area, where bandits had mobilised to attack neighbouring communities. During the ensuing firefight, five bandits were killed while others fled.

Recovered items included two AK-47 magazines containing 11 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, two machetes, and one knife. Follow-up operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Maj. Gen. EF Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of JTF OPEP, reassured residents of Plateau State of the military’s commitment to protecting lives and property. He urged the public to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, emphasizing that community cooperation is vital for sustaining peace.

The military also warned criminals in the Joint Operations Area to cease illegal activities or face decisive action, reiterating that troops remain vigilant and ready to respond to security threats in Plateau State.