Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have neutralised 10 terrorists and rescued several kidnapped victims during a major clearance operation in a forest area of Plateau State.
The offensive, carried out in Daji Madam Forest between Daba and Seri villages, targeted criminal hideouts at Dogo Ruwa and Bogwas, leading to the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and other items.
Spokesperson of the operation, Polycarp Oteh, described the mission as a “successful and decisive blow against terrorists.”
“The operation, conducted as part of ongoing offensive clearance operations codenamed Operation WUTAN DAJI, underscores the military’s commitment to restoring security along identified terrorists’ corridors.
“Accordingly, at about 08:30am, 9 April, 2026, troops established strategic blocking positions between Dutsen Zaki and the Odare Forest. During the operation, a large group of terrorists mounted on motorcycles were sighted moving along a known transit route, and troops swiftly and decisively engaged the criminals with superior and well-coordinated volume of fire,” he said.
Despite resistance, the troops overpowered the attackers, resulting in the “neutralisation of 10 terrorists while some fled in disarray into the surrounding forest, leaving behind a trail of casualties.”
Oteh added: “Upon the initial encounter, the perpetrators withdrew into the surrounding hinterlands, prompting an immediate pursuit by security forces into the general area to ensure the restoration of peace and security.
“In a series of coordinated manoeuvre, troops conducted rigorous cordon and search operations across Suma Suga and Takwok villages, as well as the adjacent mountainous terrain.”
Recovered items included rifles, magazines, ammunition, motorcycles, fuel supplies, and identity materials believed to belong to the suspects.
Residents welcomed the development, with one local, Jamilu Musa, saying, “We are pleased with this development because the terrorists have been a serious setback to us. They kill people at will and snatch their belongings.”
Another resident, Garba Suleman, added, “Kanam and Wase had been terrorised by bandits for a long time. Now, people in the communities can go about their normal activities without fear. We have been thinking of how to go to farm this season. It is a relief for us.”