Troops storm Plateau hideout, kill bandit, recover deadly weapons

Troops of the Nigerian Army, operating under the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace, have neutralised a suspected bandit and recovered arms and ammunition during a targeted raid on a criminal hideout in Plateau State.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation was carried out on 8 January at Yolan Gboka–Yama Da Lahdi, following sustained intelligence-led efforts to track down suspects linked to the 16 December 2025 attack on illegal miners at Tosho community in Fann District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.

According to the sources, troops encountered the bandits during the operation, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. One of the suspects was killed in the firefight and later identified as Sadiq Isah, while other members of the group reportedly fled the scene.

Following the engagement, troops searched the hideout and recovered two AK-47 rifles and 162 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. The weapons and ammunition have since been taken into military custody.

The sources said troops have launched follow-up operations in the surrounding areas to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks, particularly against vulnerable communities and mining sites.

Operation Enduring Peace is a multi-agency security initiative designed to curb banditry and violent crimes, and to restore peace and stability across Plateau State and neighbouring areas.