Plateau: Military Launches Manhunt After Gunmen Kill Soldier, Steal Weapons at Checkpoint
The Nigerian military has launched a manhunt for gunmen who attacked troops at a checkpoint in Plateau State, killing a soldier and reportedly carting away two weapons during the incident.
The attack occurred on Saturday night at Sopp checkpoint in Ungwan Boka, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, where troops of Operation Enduring Peace were deployed to maintain security.
According to reports, the incident happened at about 8pm when the soldiers were keeping vigil at the checkpoint. The attackers reportedly opened fire on the troops from different directions, triggering a gun battle before fleeing into the surrounding bushes.
The attack left one soldier dead, while two weapons were reportedly taken away by the assailants.
The incident has prompted renewed military operations in the area, with troops intensifying efforts to track down the gunmen, apprehend those responsible and recover the weapons taken during the attack.
Confirming the incident, the spokesman of Operation Enduring Peace, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, described the assault as a deliberate and unprovoked attack on military personnel.
Oteh said troops had restored normalcy in the affected area and were pursuing the perpetrators to ensure they were brought to justice.
He stated that security personnel were maintaining heightened vigilance and continuing operations aimed at preventing further attacks and protecting residents.
The military spokesman also called on members of the public to remain calm and continue their lawful activities, while urging residents to provide credible information that could assist security agencies in locating the fleeing attackers.
The killing of the soldier has raised fresh concerns about security in Riyom Local Government Area, where communities have continued to experience challenges linked to armed attacks and insecurity.
The area has witnessed repeated security incidents, including attacks on residents and security personnel, prompting the deployment of troops and the establishment of checkpoints to improve surveillance and respond to threats.
The latest attack also comes amid efforts by Operation Enduring Peace to maintain stability across Plateau State and prevent further violence in communities affected by security challenges.
Military checkpoints are intended to strengthen security by monitoring movement, identifying potential threats and providing a rapid response to incidents. However, the attack on Sopp checkpoint has highlighted the risks faced by personnel deployed to vulnerable locations.
The circumstances surrounding the latest assault are still being investigated, while the identities and affiliations of the attackers have not been officially established.
Security sources have urged caution against making premature claims about those responsible, as investigations and military operations continue.
The military is expected to sustain its pursuit of the gunmen and intensify efforts to recover the stolen weapons.
Residents have also been encouraged to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information and reporting suspicious activities that could help prevent further attacks.
The killing of the soldier has once again drawn attention to the security situation in Plateau State and the need for continued efforts to protect communities, safeguard security personnel and prevent armed groups from carrying out further attacks.
As troops continue their operations in Riyom, authorities have assured residents that security measures remain in place and that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators.
The military has urged the public to remain calm while security personnel work to restore lasting peace and prevent another breach in the area.
