Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have intensified security operations across Plateau State, arresting 31 suspects in separate operations, foiling a suspected militia attack, and sustaining intelligence-driven raids aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace in troubled communities.
In Jos North Local Government Area, troops of Sector 1, working in collaboration with local vigilantes, arrested 27 suspected drug peddlers during coordinated raids on identified drug hotspots at Yanshanu, Dutse Uku and the Farin Gada Tomatoes Market.
The operation, conducted on July 12 following credible intelligence on illicit drug activities, led to the recovery of quantities of substances suspected to be cannabis sativa and other prohibited drugs.
The suspects have been profiled and are undergoing further investigation ahead of possible prosecution. Security authorities said the operation forms part of sustained efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks, curb the circulation of illicit substances and reduce crimes associated with drug abuse across Plateau State.
In a separate operation, troops of Sector 3 successfully foiled a suspected militia attack on Dantanko community in Miango, Bassa Local Government Area.
Acting on reports of sporadic gunfire on the night of July 12, troops swiftly responded to the distress call, engaged the suspected attackers and forced them to flee into nearby bushes without causing casualties.
During the encounter, troops fired three rounds of 12.7 x 108mm armour-piercing ammunition to repel the assailants before deploying to ambush positions along suspected escape routes to prevent their regrouping and arrest fleeing suspects.
Security authorities said confidence-building patrols and clearance operations have since been intensified in the area to reassure residents and forestall further attacks.
Meanwhile, troops of Sector 6 arrested four suspects during a cordon-and-search operation linked to the recent attack on Kumm Village in Riyom Local Government Area.
The operation followed a sustained manhunt after the July 11 attack on the community and targeted Luggere Fulani settlements in neighbouring Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The suspects were identified as Abbas Musa (27), Haruna Jibrin (56), Hassan Ibrahim (22), and Isah Aliyu (50).
They are currently undergoing preliminary investigation to determine their alleged roles in the attack on Kumm Village and possible links to other criminal activities within the Riyom–Barkin Ladi axis.
Military authorities said Operation Enduring Peace remains committed to sustaining offensive and intelligence-led operations across Plateau State to apprehend fleeing suspects, dismantle criminal networks and ensure the safety of residents.
