By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the 3 Division Nigerian Army and the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP) have recovered a cache of arms and ammunition in Plateau State, in a renewed offensive aimed at curbing the proliferation of illegal weapons and dismantling bandit networks across the region.
According to an official statement signed by the Media Information Officer of Operation Enduring Peace, Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, the operation followed credible intelligence indicating the stockpiling of arms and ammunition by suspected bandits in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of the state. Acting on the intelligence, troops launched a raid on the hideout of a notorious bandit located in Rawaya Village, near Kazok in Barkin Ladi.
Major Zhakom revealed that although the suspect fled moments before the troops’ arrival, a thorough search of the area led to a major discovery. Items recovered from the hideout included two AK-47 rifles, one G3 rifle, one revolver pistol, four AK-47 rifle magazines, three G3 rifle magazines, 1,198 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, four rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition, three mobile phones, and other sundry items.
He noted that the recovered weapons and ammunition are currently in custody for further investigation, while intensive efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspect and his collaborators.
Major Zhakom reaffirmed the determination of Operation Enduring Peace to maintain an unrelenting offensive against criminal elements threatening peace and security in Plateau State and adjoining areas. “Operation Enduring Peace will remain decisive in its onslaught against criminal elements, while efforts to keep the Joint Operations Area safe will also be sustained,” he stated.
