In a decisive blow against insurgents troubling parts of Plateau State, troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), operating under the special mandate of Operation Wutan Daji (OPWD), have neutralised two suspected terrorists and dismantled many criminal hideouts during a series of intensive clearance operations in Wase Local Council.

The coordinated mission, which was carried out on April 4, 2026, in partnership with local vigilantes, targeted known insurgent corridors across the Babangida, Adua and Bokayi villages within the expansive Dutsen Zaki forest.

While traversing the Babangida–Adua road, the joint force engaged in a fierce firefight with a group of armed terrorists. The superior firepower of the troops resulted in the immediate killing of two suspects, while others retreated into the dense forest with gunshot wounds.

The Media Information Officer (MIO) of OPEP, Capt. Chinonso Oteh, said following the encounter, a thorough search of the area yielded a significant recovery of arms and ammunition, including one locally fabricated firearm, a belt containing 105 rounds of 7.62mm PKT ammunition, 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and a cutlass.

He added: “In a separate tactical engagement aimed at curbing the flow of illegal arms and neutralising kidnapping syndicates within the state, in the early hours of Sunday, April 5, 2026, about 7.45am, troops stationed in the Namu District of Qua’an Pan Local Council acted on credible intelligence regarding the suspicious movement of armed individuals. The rapid mobilisation of the unit led to the successful interception of four suspected terrorists.

“Following the initial arrests, troops moved to locate and dismantle the suspects’ hideout and during these manoeuvres, the unit came under heavy fire from the terrorists’ associates. Amid the ensuing chaos, three of the four apprehended suspects attempted to escape and were subsequently neutralised.”

In athe same vein, about 9 35a.m., troops in Shendam Local Council collaborated with local residents to apprehend a suspected kidnapper at Gidan Mangoro village.

The suspect is allegedly linked to a kidnapping incident that occurred in the area on April 3, 2026. All suspects are in custody for further investigation and legal action.

“These operations underscore the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian military and its local partners to restoring peace and security in Plateau.

“Citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individual or activity to the nearest security post as clearance efforts continue,” the statement added.