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Security Forces Neutralize Four Bandits and Free Kidnap Victims in Kaduna and Plateau
In a series of well-coordinated military operations conducted between December 11 and 13, 2025, Nigerian security personnel successfully eliminated four armed bandits and secured the release of abducted individuals in Kaduna and Plateau states.
Targeted Offensive in Kaduna State
On December 11, troops from Sector 5 launched a strategic clearance mission targeting known criminal hideouts in the villages of Dangoma and Godogodo, located within Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State. During the operation, security forces engaged the kidnappers in a fierce gun battle, resulting in the death of three bandits. Several others sustained gunshot injuries and managed to escape, but efforts to track and apprehend them remain ongoing.
Interception of Armed Suspect in Plateau State
The following day, December 12, soldiers from Sector 1 intercepted a suspected bandit, kidnapper, and arms trafficker along the Jebbu-Gada Biu road in Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State. Upon spotting the troops, the suspect opened fire but was quickly subdued. Confiscated from the individual were a pistol, nine rounds of 9mm ammunition, a dagger, a mobile phone, and an undisclosed amount of cash.
Preemptive Action Thwarts Planned Attack in Kaduna
On December 13, intelligence reports alerted troops to an imminent assault on Gidan-Saki village in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area, Kaduna State. The rapid deployment of forces forced the assailants to abandon their attack plans and retreat into the surrounding bushland.
Ambush Leads to Rescue of Kidnap Victims in Plateau
Also on December 13, Sector 1 troops stationed at Jengre in Plateau State executed a successful ambush following the abduction of four individuals from Rimi village in Bassa Local Government Area. The ensuing firefight resulted in the death of one kidnapper, while all four hostages were rescued unharmed. The operation yielded the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and 13 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Ongoing Efforts to Restore Security
These recent operations underscore the commitment of the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) to combating banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria’s volatile regions. According to the Nigerian Security Tracker, incidents of armed banditry have decreased by approximately 15% in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year, reflecting the impact of intensified military campaigns.
Authorities continue to urge community cooperation and timely intelligence sharing to sustain the momentum in restoring peace and security across Kaduna and Plateau states.
