Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have recorded fresh gains against criminal groups in Plateau State.
The troops killed a suspected gang leader and arrested 15 alleged drug peddlers in separate operations.
The gang leader, identified as Usman Ya’u, was arrested on September 30, 2026. Security forces caught him during a manhunt for suspects linked to the killing of a soldier in Manja Forest.
Security sources said Ya’u later confessed to his alleged role in the soldier’s killing. He also agreed to lead troops to the gang’s hideouts in Jibiyal Forest. The troops hoped to recover weapons and arrest other members of the group.
The operation took a different turn on October 2. At about 8 p.m., troops from Sector 9 of Operation Enduring Peace moved towards the suspected hideout.
Local hunters joined the operation. The troops then encountered other members of the gang in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area.
The encounter led to an exchange of gunfire. Ya’u died during the operation.
One local hunter also sustained a gunshot injury. Troops evacuated him to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Security sources said other gang members fled the area. Troops have continued offensive operations to track down the suspects.
In a separate operation, troops arrested 15 suspected drug peddlers in Jos North Local Government Area.
The operation took place at about 6 p.m. on October 3. Troops from Sector 1 of Operation Enduring Peace raided a suspected drug hideout in Congo Russia.
The troops arrested 15 suspects during the raid. Security authorities later profiled the suspects and began further investigations.
The arrests form part of wider efforts to tackle drug-related activities in Plateau. Security agencies also aim to prevent criminal groups from using drug networks to support other illegal activities.
The latest operations come as security forces maintain pressure on criminal groups across Plateau State.
Operation Enduring Peace has carried out several operations in the state this year. These efforts have targeted kidnappers, armed groups and other criminal networks.
In September, troops rescued two kidnapped victims and arrested 11 suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate in Jos North. The operation also led to the recovery of a locally fabricated rifle and ammunition.
Earlier in June, troops rescued eight kidnapped victims from Pandam Forest in Qua’an Pan. The operation followed intelligence about kidnappers operating in the area.
The latest crackdown shows the security challenges facing Plateau communities. Forest areas remain a concern because criminal groups can use them as hideouts.
Security agencies are therefore relying on intelligence, patrols and community cooperation to track criminal networks.
The military has continued to urge residents to provide credible information about suspicious activities. Such information can help security forces locate criminal groups and prevent further attacks.
The latest operations also underline the need for sustained security efforts across vulnerable communities in Plateau State.
