Troops of Sector 3 of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have rescued a farmer who was shot by suspected armed herders during an attack on Jebbu Miango community in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The soldiers also recovered a herd of cattle abandoned by the fleeing suspects after engaging them in a gun battle, while efforts are continuing to arrest those behind the attack.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 4:20 p.m. on June 29 when suspected armed herders reportedly attacked a farmer identified as Mr. Lambat on his farmland near Jebbu Miango.
According to the sources, troops responded swiftly after receiving a distress call from residents and immediately moved to the scene of the attack.
On sighting the advancing soldiers, the attackers reportedly fled into nearby bushes, abandoning the cattle they had brought into the area.
The prompt intervention by the troops prevented further violence and possibly saved more lives, security sources said.
The injured farmer, who sustained gunshot wounds during the attack, was rescued by the soldiers and immediately evacuated to ENOS Hospital in Miango, where he is receiving medical treatment.
Although the extent of his injuries was not immediately disclosed, sources said he was taken to the hospital without delay to improve his chances of recovery.
The military also recovered a herd of cattle abandoned by the fleeing suspects during the operation.
According to security sources, the animals have been moved to a secure location pending proper identification of their owners and further action by the appropriate authorities.
Officials said the recovery of the cattle would assist ongoing investigations into the attack and help determine whether the animals were linked to the fleeing suspects.
Security agencies have since launched a manhunt for the attackers, with troops maintaining patrols around the affected community and neighbouring areas to prevent fresh attacks.
Military sources said operations are continuing to track down the suspects and strengthen security across Bassa Local Government Area.
The latest attack is another reminder of the persistent security challenges facing parts of Plateau State, where clashes involving farmers and armed herders, as well as attacks by criminal groups, have claimed many lives over the years.
Communities in Bassa, Riyom, Barkin Ladi, Mangu and Bokkos local government areas have frequently witnessed violent attacks that have resulted in deaths, destruction of property and the displacement of thousands of residents.
Many farming communities have repeatedly complained of attacks on farmers while working on their lands, especially during the farming season when agricultural activities increase.
The violence has affected food production, as many farmers now fear going to their farms because of the risk of attacks.
The Federal Government has continued to deploy military personnel and other security agencies to Plateau State under various operations aimed at restoring peace and protecting vulnerable communities.
Operation Enduring Peace was established to strengthen security, respond quickly to emergencies and support civil authorities in tackling armed violence and other criminal activities in the state.
The operation works alongside other security agencies, including the police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and local vigilante groups, to improve security in affected communities.
Despite these efforts, attacks have continued in some parts of the state, prompting calls by community leaders, traditional rulers and civil society organisations for stronger security measures and improved intelligence gathering.
Residents have also urged security agencies to sustain regular patrols in rural communities and respond more quickly to distress calls whenever attacks occur.
The swift response by troops in Jebbu Miango, which led to the rescue of the injured farmer and the recovery of the abandoned cattle, has been viewed as an example of the importance of rapid military action in protecting lives and property.
Security sources said surveillance operations have been intensified around the affected area to prevent the suspects from regrouping or carrying out further attacks.
They added that investigations are ongoing to identify everyone involved in the attack and ensure they are brought to justice.
Authorities also appealed to residents to remain calm and continue cooperating with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could help prevent future attacks.
The sources stressed that members of the public should promptly report suspicious movements and criminal activities, noting that community support remains vital in the fight against insecurity.