Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) have recorded significant breakthroughs in their ongoing “Operation PEACE SHIELD,” neutralizing seven criminal elements and rescuing a kidnap victim during high-stakes encounters in Kaduna State this week.
The back-to-back successes, recorded on January 13 and 14, 2026, underscore the military’s intensified efforts to dismantle kidnapping and robbery syndicates operating within the region.
Rescue and Neutralization in Kajim
On Tuesday, January 13, troops of Sector 7 responded to a distress call regarding the abduction and assault of a young girl in Kajim Village, Kaura Local Government Area. Acting on credible intelligence, the unit mobilized a pursuit of the assailants.
The encounter escalated into a firefight, resulting in the neutralization of three suspects, identified as Yusuf Musa, Auwal Adamu, and Kamal Abdul. The victim was successfully rescued by the troops and has since been reunited with her family following a debriefing session.
Raid on Armed Robbery Hideout
Building on the momentum, troops conducted a targeted raid on Wednesday, January 14, at a known hideout for armed robbers on the outskirts of Kaura. The operation led to a “meeting engagement” where troops engaged the criminals in a gun battle.
Four additional suspects were neutralized during the raid:
- Abubakar Ibrahim (35)
- Ibrahim Isa (37)
- Suleiman Auwal (25)
- Suleiman Tahiru
Following the shootout, troops recovered a fabricated rifle, five rounds of 7.62 mm (special) ammunition, and two motorcycles used by the gang.
Syndicate Operations Dismantled
Preliminary investigations by the JTF indicate that these individuals were members of a notorious syndicate responsible for a wave of kidnappings and armed robberies along the strategic Ganawuri-Manchok corridor.
In a statement released by Captain Joshua Atu John, Acting Media Information Officer for JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, the command reaffirmed its dedication to public safety.
”JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE remains committed to sustaining pressure on criminal elements and ensuring the safety and security of law-abiding citizens across the joint operations area,” the statement read.
