Troops neutralise two Fulani bandits, recover weapons in Plateau ambush operation

Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE have killed two armed gunmen during a coordinated ambush operation in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The operation was carried out on the evening of Tuesday, April 21, 2026, around 7:49 p.m., in the Marit general area near Doruwa Babuje, following credible intelligence on the movement of suspected criminals in the area.

According to the statement by the military, the armed men had been terrorising nearby communities through violent attacks, sexual assault, and armed robbery.

Upon sighting the suspects, troops laid an ambush and engaged them in a gun battle. Two of the gunmen were neutralised during the exchange, while others fled into nearby bushes under the cover of darkness.

A search of the area led to the recovery of one locally made rifle, five rounds of 7.62x39mm ammunition, a cutlass, a jackknife, and a mobile phone.

Troops have since maintained their presence in Marit and Lajam villages to ensure the safety of residents, while efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.

“Troops remain firmly in position within the general areas of Marit and Lajam villages to ensure the continued safety of residents as deliberate efforts are currently ongoing to track and apprehend other fleeing criminal elements,” the statement said.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to security agencies.