By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
Military forces have dealt a fresh blow to insurgent groups operating in central Nigeria, neutralizing two suspected terrorists and arresting a kidnapper during back-to-back clearance operations in Plateau State.
The raids, conducted by troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE under the special mandate of Operation WUTAN DAJI, targeted known insurgent corridors in Wase Local Government Area on April 4, 2026. Local vigilantes joined the coordinated mission across Babangida, Adua, and Bokayi villages within the dense Dutsen Zaki forest.
A fierce firefight erupted along the Babangida–Adua road, where troops engaged armed terrorists. Two suspects were killed on the spot, while others fled into the forest with gunshot wounds, according to military sources. A subsequent search recovered one locally fabricated firearm, a belt containing 105 rounds of 7.62mm PKT ammunition, 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and a cutlass.
In a separate operation early Sunday, troops in Namu District of Qua’an Pan Local Government Area intercepted four suspected armed individuals based on credible intelligence. A search revealed 100 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition in their possession.
When troops moved to dismantle the suspects’ hideout, they came under heavy fire from the terrorists’ associates. In the ensuing chaos, three of the four apprehended suspects attempted to escape and were struck down by their own accomplices’ gunfire.
Meanwhile, in Shendam Local Government Area at about 9:35 a.m., troops working with local residents arrested a suspected kidnapper at Gidan Mangoro village. The suspect is linked to a kidnapping incident that occurred in the area on April 3.
All suspects are now in custody facing further investigation and potential legal action. The military has called on citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity as clearance operations continue.
