Troops of the 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) have apprehended two suspected cattle rustlers and seized a cache of weapons during a coordinated raid on their hideout in Kogul Village, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
According to a statement released by Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, the Media Information Officer of JTF OPEP, the intelligence-led operation was carried out on 11 September 2025 following credible information on the activities of a notorious cattle rustling syndicate. The troops moved swiftly to the criminal hideout and successfully arrested two prime suspects without casualties.
During the raid, the soldiers recovered a significant haul of weapons and other items believed to be linked to the syndicate’s criminal activities. The seized items included one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, a fabricated revolver rifle, ten rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition, a mobile phone, and an undisclosed amount of cash. These weapons are suspected to have been used to intimidate local communities and aid the theft of livestock across the area.
Major Zhakom confirmed that the arrested suspects and the recovered exhibits are presently in military custody for detailed interrogation and investigation. He added that troops have intensified follow-up operations to track and apprehend other fleeing members of the criminal network. The JTF OPEP remains resolute in dismantling the group’s operations and restoring normalcy to affected communities.
The command stressed that the operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to curbing cattle rustling, which has long been a major trigger for communal clashes and insecurity in the region. Security forces assured residents of their unwavering determination to protect lives, safeguard property, and maintain lasting peace across Plateau State and other parts of the Joint Operations Area.
