Troops of Sector 8 Operation Enduring Peace in continuation of Operation Hard Knock, have intensified efforts to prevent a planned attack on Mwar Community, Chakfem Kingdom in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, recovering weapons.

There was credible Human Intelligence on 19 August 2026 indicating an imminent threat by suspected bandit militias in the community.

Preliminary findings indicated that the planned attack may have been linked to the reported rustling of an unconfirmed number of cattle allegedly by some youths from the community.

In a statement on Thursday, the Nigerian Army said troops were immediately deployed to conduct a fighting patrol and raid suspected locations, with the dual objective of recovering the missing cattle and apprehending those responsible.

The statement said the troops employed drones and other surveillance capabilities to conduct extensive reconnaissance across surrounding settlements and bush locations in search of the missing cattle.

“Although no traces of the cattle were found after a systematic search, intelligence identified Pantong Stanley and other youths from the community as suspected perpetrators.

“Acting on the intelligence, troops conducted a snap raid on the residence of Pantong Stanley, who was not present at the time of the operation. The operation yielded the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one locally fabricated AK-47 rifle, one locally fabricated revolver rifle, two Dane guns and 15 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition,” the statement said.

It said troops, in conjunction with the Police and other relevant security agencies, are currently sustaining offensive operations and targeted searches around the vicinity of other identified suspects, with a view to recovering the missing cattle, locating additional arms caches and apprehending those responsible.

It urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information on suspicious activities to security agencies, and reaffirmed commitment to safeguarding lives and property and maintain a secure environment for peaceful coexistence across Plateau State and the wider North Central region.

“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in preventing the proliferation of illegal arms, protecting vulnerable communities and denying criminal elements the freedom to undermine peace and security in Plateau State.”