Latest:Gun Battle Rocks Plateau State As Militia Gunman Killed

Gun Battle Rocks Plateau State As Militia Gunman Killed, Civilians Dead And Soldiers Wounded.


In a fierce gun battle that shook Teegbe community in Plateau State, gallant troops of Operation Lafiyan Jama'a foiled a brazen militia attack, killing one armed suspect and capturing two others after a dramatic pursuit into neighbouring Kaduna. The militia strike, which erupted around 9 a.m. on Wednesday, saw residents of Teegbe cry out for help as gunmen stormed the area. Troops raced to the scene and engaged the attackers in a tense firefight that forced the assailants to retreat into the thick bushes of Baduru Sama, Kaduna State. Refusing to back down, the soldiers gave chase and re-engaged the fleeing criminals. One militia member was gunned down in the ensuing clash, and two more—identified as 40-year-old Sani Adamu and 20-year-old Buhari Mohammed—were apprehended.

In a significant breakthrough, the troops recovered 42 stolen cows and a cash sum of ₦20,200 from the neutralised suspect, believed to be a local bandit. Tragically, the attack claimed the lives of two Teegbe residents, while another victim was seriously injured and rushed to hospital. According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgent expert, one soldier, Lance Corporal Tope Awoniyi, also sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment at 3 Division Medical Services and Hospital. The suspects are now in custody as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, military morale remains sky-high as troops intensify operations to hunt down any remaining threats in the area. The success of the operation has been attributed to the timely intelligence gathering and swift response of the troops, which prevented the situation from escalating further. The residents of Teegbe, who had been living in fear of the militia's constant attacks, have expressed gratitude to the military for their bravery and selflessness.

The Plateau State Government has also commended the military for their efforts in maintaining peace and security in the state. In a statement, the Governor's spokesperson, Dr. Makut Macham, praised the troops for their gallantry, saying, "The government and people of Plateau State appreciate the sacrifices of our military personnel who have continued to put their lives on the line to protect our citizens."

As the investigation into the attack continues, the military has assured the public that it will leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice. The operation is seen as a major blow to the militia group, which has been terrorising communities in Plateau and neighbouring states. The military has vowed to sustain the momentum of the operation, with a view to restoring total peace and security to the affected areas.

In a related development, the military has begun a sensitization campaign to enlighten the public on the need to provide timely information to security agencies to prevent such attacks. The campaign, which kicked off in Teegbe, aims to foster a stronger partnership between the military and the civil populace in the fight against insecurity.