Plateau Troops Kill Terrorists, Arrest Fake Security Operatives in Jos
Troops of the Joint Military Task Force under Operation Enduring Peace have carried out coordinated security operations in Plateau State, where three terrorists were killed and two individuals posing as security operatives were arrested. The incidents occurred late on Thursday, April 2, 2026, in Dutse Uku, Jos North Local Government Area, and Karem in Wase Local Government Area. The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to restore peace in Plateau State.
According to the official statement released by the Media Information Officer of the task force, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, the Plateau troops kill terrorists, arrest fake security operatives operation was triggered by distress calls reporting sporadic gunfire and violence in affected communities.
Arrest of Fake Security Operatives in Dutse Uku
In Jos North LGA, troops responded to reports of violence at approximately 11:45 pm in the Dutse Uku community.
Captain Oteh confirmed that:
- Two individuals were arrested while posing as security operatives.
- The suspects were dressed in tactical black uniforms.
- They were allegedly involved in arson and orchestrating violence.
- The suspects are currently in custody.
He stated that the individuals were caught actively participating in the burning of residential properties and contributing to unrest in the community.
“These impostors… were caught actively participating in the arson of residential properties and the orchestration of violence,” Oteh said.
Additionally:
- Two people sustained gunshot wounds.
- They were evacuated by troops to a medical facility.
- Their condition was reported as stable.
The identities of the injured victims were not disclosed.
Terrorists Neutralised in Wase Operation
In a separate but related operation in Karem, Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State, troops kill terrorists, arrest fake security operatives, and extend efforts to counter-terrorism offensives.
According to the military:
- Troops intercepted a large-scale movement of suspected terrorists.
- The group was reportedly travelling on motorcycles.
- A gun battle ensued following sustained military engagement.
- Three terrorists were killed during the confrontation.
Captain Oteh stated that the success of the operation was due to:
- Strategic deployment of specialised counter-terrorism troops
- Rapid response to intelligence and field reports
- Strengthening of Plateau State’s security architecture
The identities of the killed terrorists were not disclosed.
Military Responds to Allegations of Complicity
The operation comes amid recent allegations suggesting military complicity in Plateau violence.
Captain Oteh addressed these concerns indirectly, stating that:
- The arrests of fake operatives serve as a direct rebuttal to such claims.
- The military remains committed to protecting civilians.
- Efforts are ongoing to identify individuals exploiting insecurity.
The statement was also shared via the Nigerian Army’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, @HQNigerianArmy.
However, independent verification of these allegations and rebuttals remains limited.
Security Situation in Plateau State
Plateau State, particularly Jos North and surrounding areas, has experienced recurring cycles of violence involving:
- Armed groups
- Communal clashes
- Criminal elements are exploiting instability.
The Plateau troops kill terrorists, arrest fake security operatives operation highlights ongoing security challenges, including:
- Impersonation of security personnel
- Coordinated attacks on civilian communities
- Movement of armed groups across rural areas
Authorities say the deployment of Operation Enduring Peace is aimed at stabilising the region and preventing further escalation.
Public Advisory and Ongoing Operations
The military has urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies.
Captain Oteh emphasised:
- The importance of reporting suspicious individuals
- Community collaboration with security forces
- Continued military presence in volatile areas
“The military remains committed to ensuring the permanent restoration of safety and order,” the statement added.
What Is Not Yet Known
Despite official statements, several details remain unclear:
- Names and identities of the arrested suspects
- Identities of the injured victims
- Full scale of property damage in Dutse Uku
- Whether additional suspects are being tracked
These details were not specified in the original report.
Broader Implications
The Plateau troops kill terrorists, arrest fake security operatives, and send development signals:
- Intensified military operations in Plateau State
- Increased scrutiny of individuals impersonating security agents
- Renewed efforts to counter insurgent mobility
Security analysts note that impersonation of security personnel represents a dangerous escalation, as it:
- Undermines public trust
- Enables infiltration of communities
- Complicates the identification of legitimate forces
Conclusion
The latest military operations in Plateau State underscore ongoing efforts to contain violence and restore stability. While the killing of three terrorists and the arrest of two fake operatives mark tactical successes, the broader security situation remains fragile.
Authorities continue to call for public cooperation, as investigations and security operations expand across affected areas.