In a decisive security operation, troops of the Nigerian Army have eliminated a notorious bandit and seized a cache of weapons in Plateau State. The successful raid marks a significant blow to criminal elements terrorising communities in the region.
Operation Details and Firefight
The operation was executed on January 8, 2026, by troops from the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, operating under the Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP). Acting on intelligence, the forces raided a suspected bandit hideout located at Yolan Gboka–Yama Da Lahdi in Plateau State.
This raid was a direct follow-up to sustained military efforts to track down the perpetrators of a violent attack on December 16, 2025. That earlier assault targeted illegal miners within the Tosho community in the Fann District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
Upon reaching the hideout, the troops made contact with the bandits, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. During the confrontation, one bandit was neutralised by the security forces. He was later identified as Sadiq Isah, a figure known for his involvement in criminal activities in the area. Other accomplices managed to flee the scene under the cover of the engagement.
Weapons Recovered and Ongoing Pursuit
Following the firefight, soldiers conducted a thorough search of the hideout. The exploitation yielded significant results, with the recovery of:
- Two AK-47 rifles
- 162 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition
All the recovered arms and ammunition are now in military custody for further investigation and analysis. The military has confirmed that follow-up operations have commenced immediately. The objective is to intercept the fleeing suspects and dismantle their network to prevent any further criminal activities and restore peace in the area.
Implications for Security in Plateau
This operation underscores the continued resolve of the Nigerian Army and joint task forces to tackle insecurity head-on. The neutralisation of Sadiq Isah and the seizure of his weapons disrupts the operational capability of one bandit cell linked to violence in Barkin Ladi. It sends a strong message that security agencies are actively pursuing those responsible for attacks on communities, such as the December assault on miners at Tosho.
Residents in the affected communities hope that such sustained military pressure will lead to lasting peace and stability, allowing normal life and economic activities to resume without the fear of bandit attacks.
