Five suspected bandits were neutralised by the troops of 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP) in the early hours of Thursday, January 1, 2026, when they conducted sustained offensive operations as part of the ongoing Operation Peace Shield to deny bandits and other criminal elements freedom of action in the Joint Operations Area (JOA).
The troops also recovered two AK-47 rifle magazines containing 11 rounds of 7.62 mm (special) ammunition, two machetes and a knife from the bandits.
Other suspects reportedly fled, with the troops currently on their trail.
This was confirmed in a statement by the acting Media Information Officer, JTF Operation Enduring Peace, Captain Joshua John, on Saturday, January 3, 2026.
According to Captain John, “during an intelligence-led ambush operation, the troops had made contact with bandits who had mobilised from Dutsen Zaki towards Odare Forest in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State with the intention of attacking adjoining communities in the area.”
The spokesman said further in the statement: “The General Officer Commanding, 3 Division Nigerian Army, and Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace, Major General E.F. Oyinlola, assures law-abiding residents of Plateau State and other Areas of Responsibility (AoR) about the ongoing efforts of the 3 Division/JTF in safeguarding lives and properties within the AoR.
“He also urges the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies.”
The GOC and JTF OPEP Commander warned criminals operating within the Joint Operations Area (JOA) to “cease all criminal activities or face decisive military action, as troops remain vigilant and prepared to address any potential security threats to peace and stability in Plateau State.”
