By Wale Adejoh
Personnel of the Joint security forces fighting terrorism, banditry and insurgency have continued to record significant breakthroughs following various arrests of suppliers of illicit weapons to the criminal elements in different parts of the northern region of Nigeria.
In a latest development, troops of 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace, while raiding the hideouts of suspected criminals in Gwender village in Bokkos local government area of Plateau state, recovered different kinds of weapons.
According to a statement signed by the Media Information Officer, JTF Operation Enduring Peace; Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, though some of the suspected criminals fled upon sighting the security forces, others has been apprehended.
“In furtherance of sustained efforts to rid the Joint Operations Area of illicit arms and ammunition and to guarantee a hitch-free yuletide celebration, troops of 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) conducted multiple intelligence-led operations on 19 December 2025, recording significant successes”.
Giving details of the items recovered, the statement continued “In the early hours of 19 December 2025, troops, raided the hideout of suspected criminal elements at Gwender Village in Bokkos Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State. Although, the suspects fled the location moments before the arrival of troops, a thorough search of the hideout led to the recovery of one fabricated AK-47 rifle with a magazine, one fabricated pistol, and several rounds of ammunition of various calibres.
In a related development, troops in collaboration with an intelligence agency tactical team, acting on credible intelligence, established a snap checkpoint at Mairana in Mangu LGA of Plateau State. During the operation, an individual was intercepted in possession of 2 boxes of ammunition containing a total of 1,400 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition. The suspect has been arrested, while the recovered items are currently in custody pending further investigation. Troops are also conducting follow-up operations to apprehend other members of the criminal syndicate”.
The JTF assured lawful citizens of their unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property and solicited their cooperation through timely provision of information about activities of terrorists.
“3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE reassures the law-abiding residents of Plateau State of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property. Members of the public are encouraged to continue to support ongoing operations by providing timely and credible information, as troops remain resolute in ensuring sustained peace and security across the state”, the statement concluded.
