Troops of 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP) have recorded another success in their ongoing efforts to rid Plateau State of bandits, militias, and other criminal elements.
According to a statement by Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer of JTF OPEP, the operation was carried out on 24 September 2025 following credible intelligence on the activities of armed criminals at Manja, a border community along the fringes of Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas.
During the operation, troops encountered armed bandits who were forced to flee after engaging in a brief firefight, overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the troops.
“Our troops exploited the general area after the criminals withdrew and recovered an assorted rifle, ammunition, and two mobile phones abandoned by the fleeing bandits,” the statement read.
The recovered items are now in military custody for further investigation and action. Major Zhakom added that operations are ongoing to track down and neutralize the fleeing criminals.
He emphasized that the troops’ operational success was a result of their vigilance, combat readiness, and commitment to restoring peace in Plateau State.
“These fundamentals will continue to serve as the backbone of our operations as we work to secure the Joint Operations Area and bring perpetrators of heinous crimes to justice,” he stated.
This development comes amid heightened military operations across the state to stem rising incidents of attacks and ensure the safety of residents.
