Troops from Sector 9 of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) neutralised four suspected kidnappers and recovered sophisticated weapons and ammunition during an operation in the Pandam Forest, Qua’an Pan Local Government Area, Plateau State, on 29 April.
The media arm of the task force confirmed that the operation began at approximately 5:20 p.m. after credible intelligence identified a hide‑out in the dense forest. The mission was carried out in collaboration with a STRATOC drone team and involved two suspects who had been arrested earlier in the week.
According to the statement, the operation followed the arrest of two suspects and the recovery of ransom money in Bauna village, Shendam Local Government Area, on 25 April. After linking the new intelligence to the Pandam Forest, the troops moved to the suspected hide‑out. Contact with the kidnappers resulted in a firefight, during which all four suspects were neutralised. The statement added that the two individuals previously apprehended were among those killed as they attempted to escape during the engagement.
The task force is continuing to sweep the surrounding area to dismantle any remaining criminal elements and to strengthen security in the region. Security officials said the operation demonstrates ongoing efforts to counter kidnapping networks that have plagued parts of Plateau State.
The recovered weapons and ammunition have been secured for forensic analysis, and the incident will be investigated further to assess any links to other criminal activities in the area.
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