In a demonstration of decisive action, the Joint Task Force of Operation ENDURING PEACE has successfully neutralized five suspected kidnappers and secured the release of several abducted individuals during two separate, well-coordinated operations spanning Kaduna and Plateau states.
Major Samson Zhakom, spokesperson for the operation, confirmed the successful outcomes. The first significant operation took place on December 11, when troops conducted intense clearance operations within the vicinity of Dangoma and Godogodo villages, situated in the Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Following a fierce gun battle, the soldiers overpowered the criminal elements, neutralizing three kidnappers in the process.
The following day, December 12, the focus shifted to Plateau State, where troops achieved another major breakthrough. Operating along the Jebbu–Gada Biu road in Bassa Local Government Area, the soldiers intercepted a notorious bandit. When challenged, the suspect immediately opened fire, but the troops swiftly retaliated, killing the bandit. From the scene, the soldiers recovered a cache of items, including a pistol, ammunition, a dagger, a mobile phone, and a sum of cash.
A separate, targeted operation near Jengre also yielded positive results. Troops set up an ambush and successfully intercepted a group of kidnappers who were attempting to flee the area with four abducted persons from Rimi village in Bassa LGA. In the ensuing confrontation, one kidnapper was killed, and, most importantly, all four victims were rescued unharmed and safely returned to their communities. These operations underscore the military’s renewed efforts to dominate criminal enclaves and restore security across the North Central region.
