By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter OnyekachukwuJos
Troops of the 3 Division and Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace, have foiled a major arms stockpiling plot by bandits in Plateau State following a raid on their hideout in Rawaya Village, near Kazok in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The operation, based on credible intelligence, was part of intensified efforts by security agencies to disrupt the circulation of illegal arms and neutralize criminal networks in the North Central region.
Major General Samson Zhakom, spokesperson for Operation Enduring Peace, confirmed that the raid targeted a notorious bandit known for coordinating attacks in the area. He said the suspect fled before troops arrived, but a cache of weapons was discovered during a subsequent search.
Recovered items included two AK-47 rifles, one G3 rifle, one revolver pistol, four AK-47 magazines, three G3 magazines, 1,198 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, four rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition, three mobile phones, and other items.
Zhakom said all recovered weapons are in military custody, adding that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and his collaborators.
He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustaining the pressure on criminal gangs across the state.
“Operation Enduring Peace will remain decisive in its onslaught against bandits and other criminal elements until total peace is restored,” he stated.