Nigerian Army Neutralises Notorious Bandit Mallam Yahuza Abdullahi in Plateau State

Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully foiled a planned bandit attack in Plateau State, eliminating a notorious criminal believed to have been responsible for repeated acts of terror in local communities.

The operation was carried out by troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army under the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) in the early hours of Wednesday.

Acting on credible intelligence, the soldiers stormed Gwande Community in Monguna District of Bokkos Local Government Area as part of the decisive phase of Operation PEACE SHIELD, an ongoing security effort aimed at ensuring a peaceful yuletide period across the region.

According to security sources, the troops encountered armed bandits during the intelligence-led operation and engaged them in a fierce firefight. The confrontation forced the criminals to flee in disarray, disrupting what was believed to be a planned attack on the community.

During the exchange, one bandit identified as 35-year-old Mallam Yahuza Abdullahi was neutralised. He was described as a key member of a criminal syndicate that had been terrorising Gwande Community and neighbouring areas, according to preliminary information from residents.

Following the operation, troops recovered several weapons and ammunition from the scene, including a locally fabricated revolver rifle, a fabricated pistol, nine rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and six cartridges. The recovered items have since been secured by the military.

Residents of the area have expressed relief following the operation, noting that Abdullahi and his gang had instilled fear through repeated attacks and criminal activities. The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against criminal elements to restore lasting peace and security in Plateau State and other affected regions.

The success of the mission underscores ongoing efforts by security forces to dismantle bandit networks and protect lives and property, especially during the festive season.