Troops of Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) under Operation Wutan Daji have neutralised two suspected terrorists and destroyed several hideouts during clearance operations in Wase Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau.
Security sources said the operations were carried out in conjunction with local vigilantes across Babangida, Adua and Bokayi villages within the Dutsen Zaki forest.
It was gathered that troops made contact with the terrorists along the Babangida–Adua road, leading to a gun battle in which two of the suspects were neutralised, while others fled with possible gunshot wounds.
No casualties were recorded among the troops, and all equipment was accounted for.
During the operation, troops recovered one locally fabricated gun, a belt containing 105 rounds of 7.62mm PKT ammunition, 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and a cutlass.
In a related development, troops of CSI Battalion XIV, in collaboration with 332 Artillery Regiment and vigilantes, conducted further clearance and raid operations in Dadin-Kowa and Dada villages.
The operation involved 47 soldiers and four vigilantes, supported with motorcycles, gun trucks, a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle and an artillery gun.
The troops established a gun position and carried out fire missions on suspected terrorist locations in Madam Forest to deny them freedom of action.
Subsequent raid operations in Dadin-Kowa village led to the destruction of suspected terrorist hideouts, although no contact was made with the fleeing elements.
In another development, troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have recovered suspected rustled cattle during a night patrol in Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau State.
Security sources said the recovery was made on April 3 at about 10:05 p.m. following intelligence on the movement of suspected cattle rustlers along Suma Ruga Rakwok village axis.
It was gathered that troops deployed at Kanse laid an ambush along a bush path in the area.
On sighting the troops, the rustlers reportedly abandoned the cattle and fled into the surrounding bush.
The recovered livestock have been secured, while efforts are ongoing to ascertain the exact number and identify the rightful owners.
Sources added that Fulani community leaders would be contacted to facilitate proper identification and handover of the cattle.
Written with reports from Zagazola Makama
