Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division, under the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), have foiled a planned bandit attack in Plateau State and neutralised a suspected member of a notorious criminal syndicate.

The operation, which took place in the early hours of Wednesday, December 25, 2025, was carried out at Gwande Community in Monguna District of Bokkos Local Government Area, following credible intelligence reports.

According to military authorities, the suspects were mobilising to launch an attack on a nearby community when troops moved in.

A statement issued by the Media Information Officer of JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, said the troops engaged the armed bandits in a gun battle, forcing them to flee in disarray.

One of the suspects was neutralised during the exchange, while others reportedly escaped with possible gunshot wounds.

Items recovered at the scene included a locally fabricated revolver rifle, a locally made pistol, nine rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, and six cartridges.

Preliminary information from residents indicated that the neutralised suspect belonged to a criminal syndicate that has been terrorising Gwande Community and surrounding areas.

In response, troops have intensified follow-up operations aimed at tracking down and apprehending the fleeing members of the group.

The operation forms part of the decisive phase of the ongoing Operation PEACE SHIELD, which seeks to maintain peace and security across the Joint Operations Area, particularly during the yuletide period.

The military reassured law-abiding residents of Plateau State of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

The statement also warned criminal elements operating within the area to desist from all forms of illegal activities or face decisive military action, stressing that troops remain vigilant and fully prepared to respond to threats against peace and security.