Gunmen kill soldier, steal weapons at Plateau checkpoint

Gunmen have killed a soldier and stolen two weapons after attacking troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) at a military checkpoint in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The attack occurred at about 8 p.m. on Saturday at Sopp Checkpoint in Ungwan Boka, where soldiers were reportedly keeping vigil.

The assailants reportedly opened fire on the troops from different directions, triggering a gun battle before escaping into the bush.

The spokesperson for OPEP, Chinonso Oteh, an army captain, confirmed the incident, describing it as a deliberate and unprovoked attack on the troops.

He said security forces had restored normalcy in the area and launched an operation to track down the attackers and recover the stolen weapons.

“It was a deliberate and unprovoked attack on troops at Sopp Checkpoint, Ungwan Boka in Riyom Local Government Area.

“Troops have restored normalcy in the area and are maintaining aggressive pursuit of the perpetrators to apprehend them and recover the carted-away weapons,” Mr Oteh said.

ALSO READ: Plateau police detain officer over shooting at checkpoint

He added that the situation remained under control, while troops had intensified surveillance to prevent further security breaches and reassure residents of their safety.

The military spokesperson urged residents to remain calm, continue their lawful activities, and provide credible information that could help security agencies apprehend the attackers.

The incident comes amid persistent security concerns in parts of Plateau State, where communities have experienced recurring attacks, killings and kidnappings.