Troops Neutralise Criminal Elements, Arrest Impostors in Plateau

By Harriet Tornguvan 

Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation ENDURING PEACE, have recorded significant operational gains in Plateau State, neutralising criminal elements and arresting suspected impostors in coordinated operations across Jos North and Wase Local Government Areas.

The breakthrough, which followed the deployment of additional counter-terrorism personnel, underscores renewed efforts by the military to restore peace and stability in troubled communities within the state.

According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of the task force, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, the troops achieved a major success late Thursday night during a targeted operation in Dutse Uku, Jos North Local Government Area.

At about 11:45 p.m., troops responding to a distress call over sporadic gunfire in the area intercepted and apprehended two individuals allegedly masquerading as security operatives. The suspects, dressed in black tactical uniforms, were reportedly caught in the act of setting residential buildings ablaze and instigating violence within the community.

The statement noted that the suspects are currently in military custody, while two civilians who sustained gunshot wounds during the incident have been evacuated to a medical facility and are said to be in stable condition.

The arrest, the military said, debunks allegations of complicity by security personnel in the unrest in Jos North, stressing that criminal elements have been impersonating military operatives to perpetrate violence and discredit the Armed Forces.

In a related development, troops operating in Karem, Wase Local Government Area, disrupted the movement of suspected terrorists travelling on motorcycles. The insurgents reportedly fled following a fierce engagement with the troops, leading to the neutralisation of three of them.

The military attributed the successes to the recent deployment of a battalion and specialised counter-terrorism units, as directed by the Chief of Army Staff earlier on Thursday.

It described the reinforcement as a “game-changer,” noting that the increased troop presence has enhanced operational efficiency, strengthened security architecture, and restored proactive control in volatile areas.

The task force reaffirmed its commitment to decisively deal with all criminal elements, insurgents, and hoodlums threatening public peace in Plateau State.

It also urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and activities to the appropriate authorities.

The military assured that ongoing operations, coupled with public cooperation, would ensure the sustained restoration of peace, safety, and normalcy across affected communities.