Troops of the Nigerian Army have launched a large-scale stop-and-search operation across the Jos metropolis in Plateau State following a deadly attack in Jos North that left more than 28 people dead and over 50 others injured.
The operation, carried out under Operation Enduring Peace, began on Friday as part of efforts to restore calm and safeguard lives and property in the troubled area.
In a statement issued by the Joint Task Force’s Media Information Officer, Captain Chinonso Oteh on Saturday, the military said the intensified security presence is already yielding results.
Troops have reportedly arrested two suspects and recovered a cache of weapons, including a fabricated AK-47 rifle, four rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a pump-action gun.
The statement noted that these arrests were made during targeted operations in key areas identified as flashpoints.
These include Jos North and Jos South, as well as locations such as Dadinkowa, Old Airport Junction, Tudun Wada, and the state’s low-cost housing estate.
Security forces also responded to a distress call involving sporadic gunfire in the Yelwa Cattle Market area of Shendam.
According to the military, suspected gunmen fled into nearby bushes after troops applied what was described as superior tactical pressure.
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters confirmed that the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has approved the deployment of an additional 850 troops to Plateau State.
The reinforcement is expected to strengthen ongoing operations and help de-escalate tensions in affected communities.
The military reiterated that the newly deployed troops will support those already on the ground in restoring law and order.
They also emphasided that personnel have been adequately equipped with logistics and operational support to carry out their mandate effectively.
Addressing troops at the Joint Task Force headquarters in Jos, the army chief urged them to remain disciplined, professional, and resolute in confronting criminal elements threatening public safety.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the recent attack as shocking, noting that both residents and security personnel were taken by surprise after a prolonged period of relative peace in the area.
“As a matter of fact, the community was blindsided.
”The security personnel were also caught off guard because of the relative peace we have enjoyed, particularly in the last 10 months to one year. So nobody envisaged this kind of thing,” the governor said.
The ongoing operations underscore renewed efforts by security agencies to contain the crisis and prevent further violence in Plateau State.
