Troops neutralise suspected terrorist, recover two AK-47 rifles in Plateau

Troops of Sector 2, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), have neutralised a suspected terrorist and recovered two AK-47 rifles during a stop-and-search operation at Zak village in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The incident occurred at about 9:50 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, when troops deployed in the area intercepted a green-coloured Golf vehicle with registration number DKA-808XM as part of ongoing security checks.

Military source told Zagazola that the troops subjected the vehicle to a search and discovered a fabricated concealed compartment inside the dashboard.

The driver was reportedly directed to open the concealed compartment but refused and allegedly fled into a nearby bush. Some of the troops immediately pursued the suspect while others remained behind to secure and continue searching the vehicle.

The fleeing driver was subsequently apprehended but allegedly attempted to disarm one of the soldiers. The troops responded swiftly, resulting in the neutralisation of the suspect.

A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, with registration numbers 506034 and 4690, as well as one magazine. Other items recovered included two wooden rifle butts, nine magazine pouches, two camel bags, six jungle hats, one mobile phone and an ATM card.

The recovery of the weapons and military-style accessories from a vehicle fitted with a concealed compartment has raised further security concerns over attempts by criminal and terrorist elements to move arms through the region.

The operation forms part of sustained stop-and-search activities by troops of Operation Enduring Peace aimed at disrupting the movement of armed groups, illegal weapons and other threats across Plateau State.

Security forces have continued to intensify patrols and intelligence-led operations across vulnerable communities and major access routes in the state as part of efforts to prevent attacks and protect civilians.

The latest operation also demonstrates the importance of routine vehicle checks and vigilance by security personnel in identifying concealed weapons and preventing their movement into communities.

Zagazola understands that the recovered weapons and other items have been taken into military custody for further investigation.