By Helen Udo.
Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE have intensified offensive operations in Plateau State, neutralising terrorist elements, arresting a suspected gun runner and recovering locally fabricated rifles in a series of coordinated operations across the Joint Operations Area.
According to a statement signed by Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE, the operations were conducted between June 26 and July 1, 2026, following credible intelligence on terrorist activities.
During an early morning raid on June 26 at Gero Highground in Jos South Local Government Area, troops advanced on a suspected terrorist hideout after receiving reports of criminal activities in the area.
The terrorists opened fire on the troops while using livestock as cover, prompting soldiers to hold their position and call for reinforcements before launching a counter-offensive.
Reinforced troops pursued the fleeing terrorists, neutralised several of them and continued clearance operations aimed at dismantling their hideouts and preventing their return.
On the same day, troops at a checkpoint in Maijanki intercepted a motorcycle carrying two passengers who abandoned a bag and fled into nearby bushes upon sighting security personnel.
A search of the abandoned bag led to the recovery of three locally fabricated rifles, while the motorcycle rider was arrested and taken into custody alongside the recovered weapons for further investigation.
In another successful operation on June 30, troops acting on intelligence ambushed suspected terrorists gathering around the Rafin Bauna/Gero mountains in Jos South, killing five of them while forcing others to flee.
Military assessments, supported by local community members, indicated that some of the terrorists neutralised during the ambush were on the command’s wanted list for masterminding attacks in Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.
On July 1, troops guarding the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, repelled a night attack after suspected terrorists breached the perimeter fence, killing one attacker and recovering arms and ammunition.
The body of the deceased was handed over to the police.
Operation ENDURING PEACE reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against terrorist groups, assuring residents of continued efforts to protect lives and property and restore lasting peace across Plateau State.
