Troops of the 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP) have arrested a suspect and recovered arms and ammunition at a checkpoint in Plateau State.
The operation was conducted on Friday in Mangu community, Mangu Local Government Area of the state, following credible intelligence, as part of efforts to ensure a peaceful yuletide celebration in the state.
Spokesman for the joint taskforce, Major Samson Zhakom, confirmed the suspect’s arrest in a statement shared with journalists in Jos on Saturday.
The statement read, “Troops in collaboration with an intelligence agency tactical team, acting on credible intelligence, established a snap checkpoint at Mairana in Mangu LGA of Plateau State.
“During the operation, an individual was intercepted in possession of 2 boxes of ammunition containing a total of 1,400 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition.
“The suspect has been arrested, while the recovered items are currently in custody pending further investigation.”
Zhakom further disclosed that troops also raided a hideout of suspected criminal elements at Gwender Village in Bokkos Local Government Area, recovering one fabricated AK-47 rifle with a magazine, one fabricated pistol, and several rounds of ammunition of various calibres.
“In furtherance of sustained efforts to rid the Joint Operations Area of illicit arms and ammunition and to guarantee a hitch-free yuletide celebration, troops of 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) conducted multiple intelligence-led operations on 19 December 2025, recording significant successes.
“In the early hours of 19 December 2025, troops raided the hideout of suspected criminal elements at Gwender Village in Bokkos Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State.
“Although the suspects fled the location moments before the arrival of troops, a thorough search of the hideout led to the recovery of one fabricated AK-47 rifle with a magazine, one fabricated pistol, and several rounds of ammunition of various calibres,” he added.
The statement reassured residents of Plateau State of the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing operations.
“Troops are also conducting follow-up operations to apprehend other members of the criminal syndicate,” Zhakom added.
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