Troops of the 3 Division and the Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace, have stopped an attempted attack by armed bandits in Plateau State and killed a notorious terrorist leader during the operation.
Gatekeepers News reports that the military action followed credible intelligence received in the early hours of December 25, which led soldiers to Gwande community in the Monguna District of Bokkos Local Government Area. The troops moved in after reports that bandits were planning to strike a nearby community.
According to a statement issued by the operation’s information officer, Samson Zhakom, the troops encountered the armed group and immediately engaged them, forcing the attackers to retreat.
The statement reads, “In the early hours of 25 December 2025, troops, acting on credible intelligence, conducted a decisive operation at Gwande Community, Monguna District, Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.”
“During the operation, troops made contact with a group of armed bandits who were mobilising to launch an attack on a nearby community. The troops swiftly engaged the criminals, forcing them to flee in disarray.”
“In the subsequent exchange of gunfire, one bandit was neutralised, while others escaped with possible gunshot wounds.”
The troops recovered a locally fabricated revolver rifle, a fabricated pistol, nine rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and six cartridges from the area.
Zhakom said initial findings showed that the neutralised bandit belonged to a dangerous gang responsible for attacks in Gwande and neighbouring communities.
He added that security forces have stepped up efforts to track down the fleeing members of the group.
The army assured residents of Plateau State of its continued commitment to peace and security and called on the public to keep providing timely and credible information.
It also warned criminal elements in the area to abandon illegal activities or face firm military action.
