Bloody Plateau Ambush: Troops Nab 19 Suspects After Gunmen Kill Two Security Operatives
Security forces in Plateau State have launched extensive operations, including a raid on Tongoron Community, following a deadly ambush that killed two security operatives and led to the theft of their rifles. Nineteen suspects have been arrested for profiling as part of efforts to track down those responsible and prevent further security breaches. Authorities are intensifying efforts to restore order and recover stolen weapons.
Security forces in Plateau State have intensified operations following a deadly ambush on a joint security patrol along the Ganawuri–Sabon Gida Road in Riyom Local Government Area. The ambush, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, resulted in the death of two security operatives and the theft of their service rifles. The incident began when four security operatives from two different locations mounted a roadblock for routine security operations. Upon completing their duty, two of the operatives failed to return to their posts, prompting immediate concern among their colleagues.
A subsequent search operation by other members of the patrol team led to the discovery of the bodies of the two missing operatives at the scene of the attack. The assailants had fled, taking the victims' service rifles, while the motorcycle used by the operatives during the patrol was recovered at the location. This deadly attack triggered widespread security concerns and a robust response from authorities.
In a direct response to the ambush, troops of Sector 6, Operation Enduring Peace, conducted a raid on Tongoron Community in Riyom Local Government Area. This operation, carried out at approximately 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, was part of ongoing efforts to track down those responsible for the attack. Intelligence sources, shared with counter-insurgency expert and security analyst Zagazola Makama, confirmed the details of the raid.
During the raid, a total of 19 suspects were arrested for profiling and further investigation. The suspects comprised 14 indigenes of the Tongoron Community and five Fulani residents. Military authorities stated that these individuals are currently undergoing thorough profiling to ascertain any potential links to the ambush or involvement in other criminal activities within the area. This operation is integral to Operation Enduring Peace's broader clearance, cordon-and-search efforts, which aim to identify the attackers, recover stolen weapons, and prevent future security breaches in Riyom Local Government Area.
The Plateau State Police Command spokesperson, Alfred Alabo, when contacted for comment by SaharaReporters, indicated that he would verify the incident before issuing an official statement, stating, "Let me call and confirm and get back." Security forces continue to maintain a strong presence and are rigorously pursuing leads to apprehend the perpetrators and retrieve the stolen firearms, highlighting the commitment to restoring peace and order in the affected region.