Crime
Troops intensify crackdown on gunrunners fuelling banditry in Plateau
Troops intensify crackdown on gunrunners fuelling banditry in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
In the fight against the hydra-headed menace of banditry, troops of 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) have recorded a major breakthrough in Plateau, neutralising a notorious gunrunner and recovering a cache of arms and ammunition.
The feat, achieved between Sept. 4 and 6, highlights the military’s growing resolve to dismantle the criminal logistics networks that have long sustained armed violence in the North-Central.
The gunrunner, described as a “high-value target” by security sources, had allegedly played a critical role in supplying bandits with rifles, magazines, and other logistics across Plateau and neighbouring states.
His neutralisation, officials say, has dealt a heavy blow to the illicit supply chain that has prolonged insecurity in the region.
Sources told Zagazola Makama that credible intelligence led troops to track the suspect to a hideout where he was receiving treatment for gunshot wounds on Sept. 4. He was swiftly apprehended and later confessed to his role as a logistics supplier, even agreeing to lead troops to his arms cache.
Two days later, on Sept. 6, troops launched a follow-up operation at the identified hideout. The mission, however, was anything but routine. As troops closed in, they came under heavy fire from the suspect’s gang members, resulting in a fierce exchange.
In the chaos, the gunrunner attempted to escape but was neutralised by the troops’ superior firepower. His cohorts, badly shaken by the encounter, fled the scene with gunshot wounds.
The troops subsequently combed the area, uncovering the concealed weapons: two AK-47 rifles and two magazines, which are now in custody.
The recovery, though modest in numbers, represents something bigger in the larger security equation: the deliberate targeting of supply chains that keep bandits armed and emboldened.
The bandit gangs rely not only on local recruits but also on a shadowy network of financiers, informants, and arms dealers. By dismantling this network, the military is effectively cutting off the oxygen that sustains criminal groups.
Troops intensify crackdown on gunrunners fuelling banditry in Plateau
Zamfara Bandit Clashes: Aleru’s Fighters Reportedly Kill Notorious Kachallah Dogo Baldu
By: Zagazola Makama
Fresh reports from Zamfara State indicate that fighters loyal to notorious bandit leader Aleru have reportedly killed a rival bandit kingpin, Kachallah Dogo Baldu, during an ongoing clash between rival armed groups in the eastern part of Mada.
Sources from the area said Dogo Baldu was reportedly killed during the fierce fighting, which has also claimed the lives of several of his fighters.
The reports indicated that the clashes were still ongoing as of the time of filing this report, with fears that additional casualties could be recorded as the rival groups continue their confrontation.
The fighting is believed to reflect the continuing rivalry among armed criminal groups operating in parts of Zamfara State, where competing factions have engaged in violent confrontations over influence and territorial control.
However, the reported death of Dogo Baldu and the full casualty figures could not be independently verified as of press time.
Zamfara Bandit Clashes: Aleru’s Fighters Reportedly Kill Notorious Kachallah Dogo Baldu
Four Killed as fulani bandits Attack Shurum Community in Plateau
By Zagazola Makama
Four residents have been killed following an attack by suspected fulani bandits on Shurum Village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources said the attack occurred at about 1:03 a.m. on Oct. 17, 2026, prompting troops of Sector 4 of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), stationed at Dorowa, to respond to the incident.
On arrival, the troops reportedly discovered four residents who had been killed by the assailants, who had fled before the security personnel reached the village.
The troops immediately launched offensive operations and a manhunt for the fleeing attackers around Dorowa Babuje and Rapomol communities.
Security personnel are continuing efforts to track down those responsible for the killings and prevent further attacks in the affected communities.
The latest incident adds to security concerns in parts of Barkin Ladi, where armed attacks have continued to threaten the safety of residents.
Authorities are expected to intensify efforts to identify the perpetrators and establish the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Four Killed as fulani bandits Attack Shurum Community in Plateau
Troops Arrest Suspected Criminal, Recover Dane Gun in Edo
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of the 4 Brigade under Operation MESA have arrested a suspected criminal and recovered a Dane gun in Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State.
Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 6:04 p.m. on Oct. 16, 2026, by troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Sobe while conducting a patrol around the Igue/Oke–Agor farm area.
The suspect was reportedly identified by local residents as an alleged criminal who had led villagers following an attack on a farmer and other members of the community.
The troops recovered one Dane gun from the suspect during the operation.
The suspect and the recovered weapon were subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police Force at Otuo Division for further investigation and necessary action.
The arrest forms part of ongoing security efforts to tackle criminal activities and improve the safety of farming communities in Edo State.
Troops Arrest Suspected Criminal, Recover Dane Gun in Edo
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