Troops of the 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace have stormed a kidnappers’ hideout in Plateau State, killing suspects and recovering weapons during a swift intelligence-led operation.
The raid was carried out on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at a location close to Lantom Village in the Kadarko District of Wase Local Government Area, as part of efforts to curb kidnapping and armed robbery in the area.
In a statement, the Acting Military Information Officer of the JTF Operation Enduring Peace, Captain Joshua Atu John, confirmed that four suspects were initially apprehended, with items recovered including a fabricated rifle, an axe and a machete.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects have been involved in recent crimes within the district,” he said, noting that two other accomplices escaped with an AK-47 rifle.
Captain John said the arrested suspects later assisted troops by disclosing the location of a concealed arms and ammunition cache on the outskirts of Kadarko.
“However, in a desperate attempt to escape, the suspects tried to snatch the weapon of one of the soldiers while leading troops to the cache,” he said. “They were decisively neutralised.”
He added that follow-up operations are ongoing to track down the fleeing gang members and recover the missing firearm.
Reacting to the development, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander JTF Operation Enduring Peace, Major General EF Oyinlola, praised the troops for their professionalism and determination.
“I commend our troops for their gallantry and commitment to sustaining peace within the Joint Operations Area,” the GOC said. “We remain resolute in discharging our lawful mandate to safeguard lives and property.”
Major General Oyinlola also called on residents to continue supporting security agencies, stressing the importance of timely and credible information.
“The cooperation of law-abiding citizens remains indispensable to the success of ongoing operations,” he added.