Troops of the 3 Division Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace have arrested a suspect and recovered arms and ammunition during an intelligence led operation in Plateau State.
The operation was carried out on Friday, December 19 at Mangu community in Mangu Local Government Area as part of efforts to ensure a peaceful yuletide celebration in the state.
Confirming the development in a statement made available to journalists in Jos on Saturday, December 20, the joint task force spokesman, Major Samson Zhakom, said the arrest followed credible intelligence.
“Troops in collaboration with an intelligence agency tactical team, acting on credible intelligence, established a snap checkpoint at Mairana in Mangu LGA of Plateau State,” the statement said.
“During the operation, an individual was intercepted in possession of two boxes of ammunition containing a total of 1,400 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
“The suspect has been arrested, while the recovered items are currently in custody pending further investigation.”
Zhakom also disclosed that troops raided a suspected criminal hideout in Gwender Village, Bokkos Local Government Area, where additional weapons were recovered.
“In furtherance of sustained efforts to rid the Joint Operations Area of illicit arms and ammunition and to guarantee a hitch free yuletide celebration, troops of 3 Division Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace conducted multiple intelligence led operations on 19 December 2025, recording significant successes,” he said.
“In the early hours of 19 December 2025, troops raided the hideout of suspected criminal elements at Gwender Village in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.
“Although the suspects fled the location moments before the arrival of troops, a thorough search of the hideout led to the recovery of one fabricated AK 47 rifle with a magazine, one fabricated pistol, and several rounds of ammunition of various calibres.”
The military reassured residents of Plateau State of its commitment to protecting lives and property and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing security operations.
“Troops are also conducting follow up operations to apprehend other members of the criminal syndicate,” Zhakom added.