Security Measures Strengthened in Plateau State
Security operations have ramped up across Plateau State, particularly over the weekend, as troops engage in efforts to rescue kidnap victims, apprehend suspected kidnappers, and respond to a deadly attack that resulted in the tragic loss of a pastor and his family.
Successful Rescue and Recovery of Ransom
As part of Operation Enduring Peace, forces stationed in Sector 9 of Shendham successfully rescued a kidnapped woman and retrieved eight million naira in ransom that had been previously paid by her family. The operation took place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, following several days of intelligence gathering regarding the victim’s abduction from the Bawna community on April 19.
Breakthrough Following Arrest of Suspects
Military sources reported a significant breakthrough in the case following the arrest and subsequent interrogation of a suspect, who confessed to involvement in the abduction. His disclosures led troops to Pandam Forest in the Quang Panh Local Government Area, where the victim was found and safely rescued.
Medical Treatment and Ongoing Operations
After her rescue, the victim underwent a medical examination at Shendam General Hospital, and the recovered ransom was subsequently returned to her family. In response to this incident, the military initiated further operations across Sheng Dam and Quang Pan to pursue additional members of the kidnapping syndicate.
Local Government’s Commitment to Security
Confirming the arrests of the suspects, Hon. Dr. Christopher Odu Manship, the Executive Chairman of the Quang Pan Local Government Council, emphasized his administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards crime. In a statement released by his media aide, Mr. Danang Cletus Sylvanas, Manship reiterated the commitment to ensuring that criminals cannot find refuge in the area.
Additional Victim Rescued Amid Rising Concerns
In a related development, security forces rescued another victim, Mr. Gambo Bello, who had been abducted in Padama, Lafia East Local Government Area of Nasarawa State and taken to Pandam Game Reserve. Reports indicate that operatives successfully raided the hideout after the kidnappers had kept Bello captive for over a week, fleeing only after a confrontation with law enforcement.
Tragic Incident Heightens Tensions
While law enforcement celebrated these successes, tragedy struck in the Riyom Local Government Area on Sunday night when gunmen attacked Gako village, resulting in the deaths of Pastor Ayuba Choji, his wife Chundun, and their children, Cyril and Endurance. Witnesses reported that the assailants launched their attack around 11 p.m., leading residents to flee in terror.
Community Urges for Enhanced Security Measures
Ruwan Tengwong, communications director for the Berom Youth Mulder Association, condemned the violence, highlighting a troubling trend where attackers increasingly target rural areas, relaxation spots, and local vigilante groups. Additionally, he noted the recent destruction of agricultural land in Kassa, Barkin Ladi Municipality, impacting crops such as cabbage, pepper, and maize. The attack has heightened tensions in Riyom and the adjacent Barkin Ladi community, prompting residents to call for enhanced security measures to avert further violence.
Call for Continued Public Cooperation
Operation Enduring Peace expressed gratitude for the community’s cooperation and urged the public to continue providing timely information to support ongoing security efforts across Plateau State.
