Troops of Operation Enduring Peace, the military’s Joint Task Force in Plateau State, have uncovered a cache of arms and ammunition during a raid on a bandits’ hideout in Rawaya Village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued on Sunday evening by the Task Force’s spokesman, Captain Samson Nantip Zhakom, the operation followed credible intelligence reports indicating that bandits in the area were stockpiling weapons.
During the operation, troops recovered two AK-47 rifles, one G3 rifle, a revolver pistol, four AK-47 magazines, three G3 magazines, 1,198 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, four rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition, three mobile phones, and other items.
Zhakom noted that the prime suspect fled moments before the troops arrived, but a thorough search of the hideout led to the recovery of the arms cache.
“The recovered items are currently in military custody for further action, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and his collaborators,” he said.
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He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to maintaining peace in Plateau State and surrounding areas, warning that criminal elements will continue to face decisive action.
“Operation Enduring Peace will remain resolute in its onslaught against criminal groups. Our efforts to ensure the safety of all residents within the Joint Operations Area will be sustained,” Zhakom stated.
The raid marks another success in the military’s intensified campaign to curb banditry and illegal arms trafficking across the North Central region.