Serious tragedy averted as troops foil stop attack on Plateau Community

By Paul Dada

The Nigerian Army says  troops in Plateau State  have arrested a suspected bandit planning to mount an attack in the Gashish District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of the state.

This was disclosed in a statement  by the spokesman for Operation Safe Haven, Major Samson Zhakom.  He said the suspect, who was in an ambush position along the Kafi Abu-Rakwok Road, was intercepted on Sunday night.

He said the troops recovered a fabricated AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, and 30 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition from the suspect.

The statement read, “On 6 July 2025, troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN on night patrol along Kafi Abu-Rakwok Road in Gashish District in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State intercepted a suspected militia.

“The suspect was arrested while in ambush position with possible intent of attacking unsuspecting commuters in the area. Items recovered from the suspect include one fabricated AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine and 30 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition.

“The suspect and recovered weapon and ammunition are in the custody of troops for further action. Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to conduct follow-up operations to intercept other members of the criminal syndicate.

“Troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN are intensifying operations against the use of firearms by unauthorized individuals to disrupt the security of the Joint Operations Area.

“We, therefore, urge the public to continually furnish troops with actionable information to carry out the operations successfully, while also addressing the challenge of proliferation of arms.”