Troops of 3 Division Joint Task Force seize arms and ammunition, arrest suspect in Plateau State, securing communities for a peaceful yuletide season.
Troops of the 3 Division Joint Task Force (JTF) under Operation Enduring Peace have achieved a major security breakthrough in Plateau State following the arrest of a suspect and the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition during coordinated intelligence-led operations.
These actions underscore the military’s commitment to ensuring a safe and peaceful yuletide season for residents across the state.
The operations were carried out on Friday, December 19, 2025, in strategic locations within Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas.
These areas have been previously identified as high-risk zones for criminal activities, particularly the illegal circulation of arms and ammunition, which poses a serious threat to public safety.
The military described the operations as part of an ongoing campaign to dismantle criminal networks, curb the proliferation of weapons, and protect lives and property during the festive season.
According to the Joint Task Force spokesman, Major Samson Zhakom, the arrest in Mangu followed credible intelligence that led troops to establish a snap checkpoint at Mairana community in Mangu LGA.
Acting on actionable tips, the troops, working alongside a tactical team from an intelligence agency, intercepted an individual found in possession of two boxes containing a total of 1,400 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a quantity deemed sufficient to fuel violent criminal activities if left unchecked.
“The suspect has been arrested, and the recovered arms and ammunition are currently in military custody pending further investigation,” Major Zhakom said in a statement released to journalists in Jos on Saturday, December 20.
He emphasized that the arrest is a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and inter-agency collaboration in maintaining law and order across Plateau State.
In addition to the operation in Mangu, troops also conducted a raid on a suspected criminal hideout in Gwender Village, Bokkos LGA.
Early reports indicate that the suspects fled the location moments before the arrival of security forces.
However, a thorough search of the premises yielded significant recoveries, including a locally fabricated AK-47 rifle with magazine, a fabricated pistol, and several rounds of ammunition of various calibres.
“These operations demonstrate our commitment to ridding the Joint Operations Area of illicit arms and ammunition, as well as ensuring that residents can enjoy a secure festive season,” Major Zhakom stated.
He noted that such operations are part of sustained military efforts to disrupt criminal networks, reduce the circulation of illegal weapons, and prevent violent incidents that could undermine peace in Plateau State.
Security experts say the recovery of arms and ammunition in Plateau State is particularly significant given the ongoing threats posed by criminal syndicates that often target civilians, businesses, and public infrastructure.
By intercepting weapons before they reach these groups, the Joint Task Force is not only preventing potential violence but also sending a clear signal to criminals that illegal activities will not be tolerated.
The military has assured residents of Plateau State of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
Troops will continue to conduct follow-up operations aimed at apprehending other members of the criminal syndicate linked to the recovered weapons.
Major Zhakom urged the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing security efforts.
The successful operations also highlight the importance of community cooperation with security agencies.
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities or movements, which can aid the military in intercepting illicit arms and ammunition before they are used to perpetrate crimes.
This collaborative approach has proven effective in multiple instances, reinforcing the principle that public safety is a shared responsibility between security forces and the community.
The 3 Division Joint Task Force continues to adopt proactive measures, including routine patrols, checkpoints, and intelligence gathering, to disrupt criminal networks and prevent the circulation of illegal arms and ammunition in Plateau State.
These measures are designed to create an environment of peace and stability, especially during high-risk periods such as the yuletide season when criminal activities tend to increase.
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