Troops of Sector 6, Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), have repelled an attack by suspected armed criminal elements on a guard position at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, neutralising one of the assailants and recovering a stolen Nigerian Army service rifle.
According to an official statement, the attack occurred at about 12:10 a.m. on Thursday, 2 July 2026, when the suspected criminals attempted to breach the institute’s perimeter under the cover of darkness.
The statement said vigilant troops swiftly engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange of gunfire, killing one of the assailants while others escaped with gunshot wounds towards the surrounding high ground. It added that no soldier was injured during the encounter.
During a search of the scene, troops recovered an AK-pattern rifle bearing Registration Number CO-3175, loaded with 16 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the recovered weapon belonged to a Nigerian Army soldier who was killed in action during an earlier encounter with unidentified militia elements at the Federal College of Land Resources Technology, Vom, on 11 April 2026.
The statement noted that the recovered rifle has been taken into military custody as investigations continue to establish possible links between the neutralised assailant and previous attacks in the Kuru-Vom axis. The remains of the deceased suspect have also been evacuated to a mortuary through the appropriate authorities.
Following the successful operation, troops intensified area domination patrols, clearance operations and pursuit of the fleeing suspects around NIPSS Kuru and adjoining communities to deny criminal elements freedom of action and enhance security in the area.
The Nigerian Army stated that the security situation remains under control, with normal activities continuing uninterrupted within the institute and surrounding communities.
It reaffirmed, through Operation ENDURING PEACE, its commitment to protecting lives, securing critical national institutions and restoring lasting peace across Plateau State.
The Army also urged members of the public to remain calm, go about their lawful activities, and promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to security agencies, stressing that continued public cooperation remains essential to strengthening national security.
