Troops arrest militia leader, youth chairman after clash in Plateau

Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have arrested a suspected Mwaghavul militia member, identified as the youth chairman of Nchya community in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, following a confrontation with security personnel enforcing a curfew.

The suspect, identified as 53-year-old Mr Hosea David, was arrested at about 6 p.m. on October 25, 2026 after a group of youths allegedly resisted troops and other security agencies enforcing the curfew in the community.

Security sources said the youths had barricaded the road and pelted the joint security team with stones and other harmful objects, while sporadic gunshots were reportedly fired from concealed positions.

The troops subsequently applied necessary force to disperse the mob and restore order in the area.

During the operation, David was arrested with one locally fabricated firearm and nine rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.

The confrontation also resulted in the destruction of the driver's door glass of a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) vehicle in the security convoy.

The suspect is currently in military custody for further action, the source said.

Troops have continued to dominate the general area to prevent further attacks and maintain law and order amid heightened security measures in the state.

The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by security agencies under Operation Enduring Peace to enforce the curfew and prevent further violence in affected communities.

Troops are also maintaining routine patrols across the Joint Operations Area to safeguard schools, places of worship and other critical national infrastructure.
 

The military said troops' morale and operational efficiency remained satisfactory.