Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
Troops of the Nigerian Army have recovered several firearms and ammunition during a raid in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State following intelligence about a planned attack on Mwar Community in Chakfem Kingdom.
The operation was conducted by troops of Sector 8, Operation ENDURING PEACE, under Operation HARD KNOCK, after security agencies received intelligence on August 19 about a possible attack by suspected bandit militias.
The Army said the planned attack was reportedly connected to the alleged rustling of an unconfirmed number of cattle by some youths from the community.
Troops subsequently launched a fighting patrol and conducted searches of locations linked to the suspected perpetrators. Surveillance drones and other intelligence-gathering equipment were also deployed to search surrounding settlements and bush areas for the missing cattle.
However, the Army said the systematic search produced no trace of the animals.
According to the military, intelligence identified Pantong Stanley and other youths from the community as suspected perpetrators. Troops later carried out a snap raid on Stanley’s residence, although he was not at home when the operation was conducted.
The operation led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one locally fabricated AK-47 rifle, one locally fabricated revolver rifle and two Dane guns.
Troops also recovered 15 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition during the raid.
The Nigerian Army said offensive operations and targeted searches were continuing in collaboration with the police and other security agencies around locations linked to other identified suspects.
The ongoing operations are focused on recovering the missing cattle, locating additional arms caches and arresting those responsible for the alleged offences.
The Army urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information on suspicious activities to security agencies.
It reaffirmed its commitment to “safeguarding lives and property” and preventing the proliferation of illegal arms across Plateau State and the wider North-Central region.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in preventing the proliferation of illegal arms, protecting vulnerable communities and denying criminal elements the freedom to undermine peace and security in Plateau State,” it said.
