Military arrests two suspects, recovers weapons after Plateau crisis

The Nigerian Military has arrested two suspects in connection with the deadly crisis that rocked various communities in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Captain Chinonso Oteh, the media office for the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace said the suspects were arrested to prevent further escalation of the ongoing crisis in the state.

According to Oteh, troops of Operation Enduring Peace have initiated a comprehensive stop-and-search exercise across the Jos metropolis on Friday.

He said the operation led to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of one fabricated AK-47 rifle along with four rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and one pump action with a cutlass.

“The arrest and recoveries were made during targeted operations conducted across key flashpoints and transit routes, including Jos North and Jos South, along Dadinkowa, the Old Airport Junction, Tudun Wada, and the State Low-cost housing estate.

“In a simultaneous development, troops also responded swiftly to a distress call regarding sporadic shooting in the Yelwa Cattle Market area of Shendam,” Oteh said.

He added that the troops successfully forced the gunmen to retreat into the forest following a superior tactical pressure.

Oteh added that during this operation two residents of the community who sustained gunshot injuries were immediately evacuated for medical attention.

“​The Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to maintaining a dominant security presence throughout Plateau State. The operations will continue with increased vigour until the threat of violence is completely neutralised and lasting peace is firmly re-established across all affected Communities,” he said.