The Nigerian Army has announced the arrest of 53 suspected criminals and extremist group members within 24 hours during coordinated operations in Plateau State.
According to operational reports made available to the News Agency of Nigeria, troops under Operation Ensuring Peace (OPEP) carried out targeted raids in Barkin Ladi and Jos North Local Government Area.
The report revealed that troops from Sector 4 OPEP stormed a suspected drug hideout in Angwan Yama and Kasua in Barkin Ladi, where nine suspects were arrested with quantities of suspected Cannabis sativa, mobile phones, power banks, and other items.
“In a separate raid around 0130 hours, troops of Sector 1, supported by the Special Forces and the Department of State Services (DSS), arrested 44 suspected members of the Sara Suka group across multiple communities in Jos North, recovering various dangerous weapons,” the report stated.
The operation also led to the recovery of four stolen cattle from Lugere Community in Riyom Local Government Area, which were returned to their rightful owner, while efforts continue to track down the rustlers.
In related developments, troops responding to communal clashes and suspected militia attacks in Taraba State and Benue State recovered two corpses and launched investigations into armed confrontations.
“One civilian sustained gunshot injuries during an encounter in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State and was evacuated to a hospital for medical attention.”
The report reaffirmed the army’s commitment to sustained offensive operations aimed at dismantling criminal and extremist networks, safeguarding civilians, and maintaining law and order nationwide.
What you should know
The latest arrests highlight ongoing military efforts to tackle insecurity in Plateau and surrounding states, where criminal gangs, drug networks, and communal conflicts remain major concerns.
Operations like OPEP focus on intelligence-led raids and collaboration with agencies like the DSS to curb violence.
The recovery of stolen property and weapons also signals progress, though continued vigilance and community cooperation remain essential in addressing the broader security challenges in the region.
