10 ‘bandits’ arrested as troops repel attack in Plateau

The Nigerian army says 10 suspected bandits were arrested by the troops of operation hakorin damisa during an attack on Barikin Ladi communities in Plateau state. 

In a statement on Thursday, the army said many suspected terrorists were killed, while some fled with gunshot injuries during separate operations in the state.

According to the statement, the troops, while responding to a distress call, rescued five persons who have been abducted at Rumfar Gwamna village on July 25.

The troops also arrested two suspected criminals and recovered 15 rustled cows at Barikin Ladi LGA on July 22.

“Troops of operation hakorin damisa IV whilst on operations on 26th of July 2023, along Rugan/Basiru village of Barkin-Ladi local government area of Plateau state came under fire from suspected bandits and professionally responded, forcing the bandits to retreat,” the statement reads.

“Troops recovered two AK 47 Rifles with registration numbers 07873 and B-32134, 15 rounds of 7.62 mm special, three locally fabricated guns and a pair of military desert camouflage uniforms. Ten suspects were captured and are currently undergoing profiling.

“In the same vein, troops also thwarted an attempted attack on Mangun and Patlong villages in Mangu LGA. Troops decisively responded and scores of the bandits were neutralised while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

“Similarly, troops on 25 July 2023 along road Janneret/ Washina Changal and Gyambwas all in Mangu LGA responded to firing from suspected bandits who fled on sighting own troops. Troops in the process recovered three motorcycles and one locally fabricated gun.

“Troops also conducted operations at the criminal hideouts at Unguwan Haruna, Kibam and Dogon Daji forest and rescued four victims while two suspected kidnappers were arrested.

“Also, on 22 July 2023, troops responded to a distress call at Makabat village in Bokkos leading to the capture of two miscreants and recovery of two locally fabricated rifles.

“Furthermore, 15 rustled cows were recovered by a combat team along the Fan district of Barkin-Ladi LGA while 37 cows were arrested for grazing on farmlands belonging to locals in Shimlan and Barkin Ladi villages.”