Troops foil bandit attack, recover arms in Plateau

The troops of 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, under the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP), have foiled a planned bandit attack and recovered arms and ammunition in Plateau State.

The operation, carried out in the early hours of Thursday, December 25, 2025, took place at Gwande community in Monguna District of Bokkos Local Government Area, following credible intelligence.

According to a statement issued by the army on Thursday night, the troops encountered armed bandits who were mobilising to attack a nearby community.

The army said soldiers engaged the gunmen, forcing them to flee.

It stated that one bandit was neutralised during the exchange of gunfire, while others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.

The army listed items recovered from the bandits to include a locally fabricated revolver rifle, a locally made pistol, nine rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and six cartridges.

The army added that preliminary reports from residents identified the neutralised bandit as a member of a notorious criminal gang that has been terrorising Gwande community and surrounding areas.

It said follow-up operations have been intensified to track down and apprehend the fleeing gang members.

The Star