Troops kill suspected terrorist, recover AK-47 rifles in Plateau

Troops of Sector 2, Operation Enduring Peace, OPEP, have killed a suspected terrorist and recovered two AK-47 rifles during a stop-and-search operation at Zak village in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.

A counter-terrorism expert, Zagazola Makama, disclosed this in a statement posted on X on Saturday.

Zagazola said the incident occurred at about 9:50 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, when troops deployed in the area intercepted a green-coloured Golf vehicle with registration number DKA-808XM as part of ongoing security checks.

He stated that the troops searched the vehicle and discovered a concealed compartment inside the dashboard.

According to him, the driver was reportedly directed to open the concealed compartment but allegedly refused and fled into a nearby bush. Some of the troops immediately pursued the suspect while others remained behind to secure and continue searching the vehicle.

He added that the fleeing driver was subsequently apprehended but allegedly attempted to disarm one of the soldiers. The troops responded swiftly, resulting in the suspect being killed.

According to him, a subsequent search of the vehicle led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, with registration numbers 506034 and 4690, as well as one magazine.

He noted that other items recovered included two wooden rifle butts, nine magazine pouches, two camel bags, six jungle hats, one mobile phone and an ATM card.

“The recovery of the weapons and military-style accessories from a vehicle fitted with a concealed compartment has raised further security concerns over attempts by criminal and terrorist elements to move arms through the region.

“The operation forms part of sustained stop-and-search activities by troops of Operation Enduring Peace aimed at disrupting the movement of armed groups, illegal weapons and other threats across Plateau State.

“Security forces have continued to intensify patrols and intelligence-led operations across vulnerable communities and major access routes in the state as part of efforts to prevent attacks and protect civilians.

“The latest operation also demonstrates the importance of routine vehicle checks and vigilance by security personnel in identifying concealed weapons and preventing their movement into communities,” Zagazola said.