Nigerian Troops Foil Bandit Attack in Plateau State: 3 Neutralized, Weapons Recovered

In a significant boost to ongoing counterterrorism and anti-banditry efforts in Nigeria’s North Central region, the Nigerian Army has successfully thwarted an attempted attack by armed militia in Plateau State. The operation, carried out by troops of the 3 Division in collaboration with Operation Safe Haven, resulted in the neutralization of three bandits and the recovery of high-powered firearms and ammunition. This development is a major win for the security forces and a reassurance to residents of Plateau State, who have lived under the shadow of sporadic attacks from criminal elements.

According to a press statement released on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, by Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, the Media Information Officer of Operation Safe Haven, the military operation was based on credible intelligence that indicated plans by armed militia to attack vulnerable communities in Qua'an Pan Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State.

“On 27 May 2025, armed militia heading to attack some villages on the Plateau were ambushed and neutralised by troops of 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN. This followed credible intelligence on plans by bandits to attack Teng and Kayarda Villages in Qua'an Pan Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State in the early hours of 27 May 2025,” the statement read.

Intelligence-Led Ambush Leads to Successful Neutralization of Threats

The Nigerian Army acted swiftly upon receiving actionable intelligence about an impending attack on Teng and Kayarda, two rural villages that have previously been on high alert due to rising insecurity in the region. The operation, which took place in the early hours of Tuesday, was carefully planned and executed to intercept the bandits before they could launch their assault.

According to the statement, soldiers took up ambush positions in strategic locations, waiting for the armed group to approach. Upon contact, the troops engaged the criminals in a firefight, successfully neutralizing three of the attackers. The remaining members of the gang reportedly fled the scene under the superior firepower of the Nigerian troops.

"During the operation, troops in ambush positions, made contact and neutralised 3 bandits with others fleeing in the process. Troops further recovered 4 AK-47 rifles, 4 AK-47 magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition from the bandits."

Weapons and Ammunition Seized from the Scene

One of the most critical outcomes of the operation was the recovery of military-grade weapons and ammunition from the attackers. Troops confiscated four AK-47 rifles, four AK-47 magazines, and a total of 56 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition. These materials are now in the custody of the Nigerian Army and represent a significant dent in the firepower available to the criminal syndicate.

"The recovered arms and ammunition are in the custody of troops, while efforts are ongoing to clampdown on the fleeing members of the criminal syndicate and also recover their illicit weapons."

Continuous Operations to Secure Plateau State

This recent success underscores the Nigerian military's renewed determination to root out criminal elements in Plateau State and across the North Central zone. The Plateau region, known for its rich cultural heritage and agricultural productivity, has in recent years faced increasing threats from banditry, armed militia, and ethnic clashes. These security threats have led to loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of local populations.

The Nigerian Army, through Joint Task Forces like Operation Safe Haven, has been actively engaging these threats. The operation’s scope spans Plateau, Bauchi, and parts of Kaduna State, where troops conduct both kinetic and non-kinetic operations aimed at restoring peace and stability.

"This operational success is a testament to the continued efforts of troops to rid the Joint Operations Area of assailants whose activities have been largely frustrated by own troops and will be sustained."

Background: The Security Situation in Plateau State

Over the past decade, Plateau State has witnessed a troubling cycle of violence driven by ethnic tensions, land disputes, and criminal infiltration. While government and community leaders have made repeated calls for peace and reconciliation, armed groups have continued to exploit the fragile environment to perpetrate violence.

The Nigerian military's increased presence in these areas has been met with both relief and renewed hope from residents, who often bear the brunt of these attacks. In recent months, Operation Safe Haven has ramped up its intelligence gathering, community engagement, and patrol operations, particularly in high-risk LGAs such as Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos, and now Qua’an Pan.

Reactions from Local Communities

Although the military has not released the identities of the neutralized bandits, locals in Qua'an Pan have welcomed the development. Speaking to NaijaRush, a resident of Kayarda village, Mr. Joseph Luka, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army:

“We’ve been living in fear because these bandits can come at any time. This military action gives us hope that the government has not forgotten us.”

Similarly, Mrs. Helen Pam, a community leader from Teng, praised the military for acting swiftly to prevent what could have been a deadly raid:

“If the soldiers did not act on time, many people would have died. We are thankful for their bravery.”

What This Means for Nigeria’s Anti-Banditry Campaign

The neutralization of these armed bandits is not only a local success but also contributes to the broader national security objective of curbing terrorism, banditry, and organized crime. The Nigerian government, through its defense and security agencies, has prioritized intelligence-driven operations and inter-agency collaboration as key components of its security strategy.

While significant challenges remain—such as porous borders, limited rural infrastructure, and insufficient security personnel—the ability of troops to act on timely intelligence and prevent attacks before they occur shows the increasing effectiveness of the country’s counter-insurgency framework.

Calls for Vigilance and Cooperation

The Nigerian Army has urged the public to remain vigilant and to continue sharing credible information with security agencies. Community collaboration remains a crucial factor in defeating organized crime. Without actionable intelligence from local sources, military operations become much harder to plan and execute effectively.

As Plateau State continues to recover from years of insecurity, the role of community policing, religious leaders, and traditional rulers in fostering peace cannot be overstated.

Conclusion

The successful ambush and neutralization of three bandits by Nigerian troops in Plateau State is a strong message to criminal elements operating in the region. With the recovery of deadly weapons and the disruption of a planned attack on innocent communities, the Nigerian Army has once again proven its commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens.

This operation, made possible through credible intelligence and swift military response, not only restores a measure of safety to the affected communities but also reinforces public confidence in Nigeria’s armed forces. However, the battle is far from over. With continued support from citizens, improved intelligence sharing, and sustained military operations, Plateau State and other parts of Nigeria can look forward to a more peaceful and secure future.