Troops of Sector 6, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), have neutralised two suspected members of an armed robbery and kidnapping syndicate during an encounter in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The operation followed the arrest of two suspected armed robbers and kidnappers on October 1, 2026, for allegedly terrorising residents along the Ganawuri–Jos road.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the suspects confessed to their involvement in the crimes and offered to lead troops to the syndicate’s hideout to recover weapons and facilitate the arrest of other members.

According to the source, at about 9:30 p.m. on October 7, troops, while moving towards the suspected hideout, made contact with other members of the syndicate, leading to heavy gun fighting.

During the encounter, the two suspects who had earlier been arrested attempted to escape and were neutralised, while other members of the syndicate fled into the surrounding area.

The troops subsequently exploited the area and recovered two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles and 23 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.

The recovered weapons and ammunition have been secured in custody for further action, while efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing members of the syndicate. (Zagazola)