The Nigerian military has initiated a search operation for assailants who attacked a military checkpoint in Plateau State, resulting in the death of one soldier and the theft of two weapons. The incident occurred on Saturday at approximately 8 pm at the Sopp checkpoint in Ungwan Boka, Riyom Local Government Area. According to security sources, the gunmen opened fire on troops from multiple directions, sparking an exchange of gunfire before fleeing into nearby bushes.
The military confirmed the incident, describing it as a deliberate and unprovoked attack. Operation Enduring Peace spokesman Captain Chinonso Oteh stated that troops have restored normalcy to the area and are actively pursuing the perpetrators to recover the stolen weapons and apprehend those responsible. Oteh assured the public that the situation is under control and that troops are maintaining heightened vigilance to prevent further security breaches.
Residents of the area have condemned the attack, characterizing it as barbaric and an attempt to disrupt the relative peace in the locality. A resident, Mr. Dung Gyang, expressed outrage, stating that the attack on the checkpoint is an attack on the community, and called for the perpetrators to be arrested. Another resident, Mrs. Sarah Bot, urged security agencies to apprehend the attackers, citing the checkpoint's role in curbing criminal activities in the area.
The latest attack occurs amid renewed security concerns in Riyom Local Government Area and other parts of Plateau State. The area has experienced a series of security breaches, including ambushes on security personnel, attacks on farming communities, and destruction of farmlands. The deployment of troops under Operation Enduring Peace aims to curb the activities of armed groups operating in the surrounding hills and forests.
Riyom Local Government Area is considered a flashpoint for frequent attacks on farming communities and banditry in Plateau State. In recent months, residents have reported several cases of night attacks and kidnappings along the Riyom-Abuja highway. The military has established additional checkpoints, including the Sopp checkpoint, to enhance surveillance and rapid response.
The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in Plateau State, particularly in Riyom Local Government Area. The military's Operation Enduring Peace was established to address the security challenges in the area. The operation has been working to restore peace and stability to the region, but the latest attack highlights the ongoing security concerns.
The public has been urged to remain calm and to volunteer credible information that could assist security agencies in their efforts to apprehend the perpetrators. The military has assured residents of their safety and urged them to go about their lawful activities. The incident is under investigation, and the military is working to prevent further security breaches.
Key points
- The Nigerian military has launched a manhunt for gunmen who killed a soldier and stole weapons at a Plateau State checkpoint.
- The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in Plateau State, particularly in Riyom Local Government Area.
- Residents have condemned the attack, characterizing it as barbaric and an attempt to disrupt the relative peace in the locality.
