Troops under the military operation known as Operation Enduring Peace have killed two suspected gunmen in Plateau State during a planned ambush, in what authorities described as a major step to stop attacks on local communities.
The operation took place on Tuesday evening in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, a region that has witnessed repeated security challenges in recent years. According to the military, the action followed credible intelligence about the movement of armed men believed to be behind earlier attacks in the area.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, said the troops acted swiftly after confirming the presence of the suspects.
The ambush occurred at about 7:49 pm near Doruwa Babuje, within the Marit general area. Soldiers were said to have laid in wait after receiving intelligence reports pointing to the movement of the gunmen.
“Upon sighting the criminals, troops sprang a successful ambush on the marauders,” the statement explained.
The encounter quickly turned into a gun battle. During the exchange of fire, two of the gunmen were shot dead, while others managed to escape into nearby bushes under the cover of darkness.
Military authorities said that although some suspects fled, troops have since intensified efforts to track them down and prevent further attacks in the area.
After the clash, soldiers carried out a search of the surrounding environment. The operation led to the recovery of several items believed to have been used by the attackers. These included a locally made rifle, five rounds of 7.62x39mm ammunition, a cutlass, a jackknife, and a mobile phone.
Security officials believe the recovered items could help ongoing investigations and possibly lead to the arrest of other members of the group.
Barkin Ladi and surrounding communities in Plateau State have long faced security issues, including clashes between armed groups and attacks on villages. These incidents have often resulted in loss of lives and displacement of residents, raising concerns among locals and authorities alike.
In recent months, the Nigerian military has stepped up operations in the state as part of wider efforts to restore peace and stability. Operation Enduring Peace is one of several security initiatives aimed at addressing violence and protecting communities in troubled areas.
Residents of Marit and nearby communities have, in the past, called for stronger security presence following repeated attacks. Many have expressed fears about safety, especially at night when most incidents tend to occur.
The military’s latest action is being seen as a response to those concerns. According to the statement, troops have continued to maintain a strong presence in the Marit and Lajam axis after the ambush. This is to ensure that fleeing suspects are tracked and to deter any further attacks.
“Troops are on the ground and will not relent in their efforts to secure the area,” the statement added.
Security agencies have also called on residents to support ongoing operations by providing useful information. Locals were urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to authorities.
Community leaders in Barkin Ladi have often stressed the importance of cooperation between residents and security forces. They say timely information sharing can help prevent attacks and save lives.
Plateau State, located in Nigeria’s North-Central region, has a history of communal tensions and security challenges. Over the years, the government has deployed various military and police operations to manage the situation.
While there have been periods of calm, attacks by armed groups have continued to occur in some areas, leading to renewed calls for lasting solutions.
They also point out that follow-up actions, such as tracking fleeing suspects and maintaining troop presence, are critical in preventing regrouping by criminal elements.
For many residents, the hope is that sustained military efforts will bring lasting peace to the region. Farmers and traders in particular have been affected by insecurity, as fear of attacks has limited movement and economic activities.
The Nigerian government has repeatedly assured citizens of its commitment to ending violence across the country. Operations like Enduring Peace are part of broader strategies aimed at improving security nationwide.
Meanwhile, authorities say investigations are ongoing, especially with the items recovered from the scene. The mobile phone found during the search may provide valuable leads.
As troops continue patrols in the area, residents are watching closely, hoping that the latest operation marks a turning point in efforts to secure their communities.
For now, the military maintains that it will not back down in its mission.
“Operation Enduring Peace remains committed to protecting the lives and property of all law-abiding citizens,” the statement concluded.