Insecurity: Army Neutralise Bandit Linked to Miner’s Attack, Recovers AK-47 Rifles

Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised a suspected bandit connected to a recent violent attack on illegal miners in Plateau State, recovering arms and ammunition during a targeted raid on the suspect’s hideout.

The operation was conducted by troops of the 3 Division, Nigerian Army, operating under the Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the state.

Details of the operation were disclosed on Friday via a post on X by security analyst Zagazola Makama. According to the account, the raid was carried out on January 8, 2026, at the Yolan Gboka–Yama Da Lahdi axis of Plateau State, following intelligence-driven investigations into the December 16, 2025 attack on illegal miners in Tosho community, Fann District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.

The troops reportedly encountered armed resistance upon reaching the hideout, resulting in a gun battle. During the exchange, one of the suspects was fatally shot and later identified as Sadiq Isah, while other members of the group fled the scene.

After securing the location, the soldiers searched the area and recovered two AK-47 rifles along with 162 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

The recovered weapons have been taken into military custody, while troops have intensified follow-up operations to apprehend the fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks in the affected communities.