The Nigerian Army has vowed to embark on an intensive war against criminals and bandits in Plateau State by striking their hideouts especially as the farming season draws near.

General Officer Commanding, GOC, 3rd Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, OPEP, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, who made the pledge during a strategic meeting with leaders from Barkin Ladi Local Government Area on Thursday, said troops of the task force in every sector are combat ready to tackle any form of criminality in the state.

He added that they will combine military action with community-focused initiatives to protect lives, properties, and livelihoods, particularly as the farming season begins.

While addressing the participants at the forum, Oyinlola said the OPEP task force would accelerate the clearance of criminal elements, maintain heightened patrols in flashpoints, and strengthen collaboration with other security agencies across the state.

The Army Chief, however, called on community stakeholders to support the military’s efforts, warning of emerging threats, including attacks on miners and an influx of cattle into farming areas.

He appealed to residents to report suspicious activities promptly, stressing that troops are deployed to protect all law-abiding citizens, regardless of ethnicity or religion.

“These are clear early warning signs that demand urgent, collective action. We cannot allow Barkin Ladi to relapse into avoidable conflict, especially now that the farming season is commencing, a period vital to the livelihoods of countless families,” Oyinlola said.

“Security is a shared responsibility. We depend on timely and credible intelligence from communities to act decisively against criminal elements.”

He added that the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has directed the distribution of fertilisers to farmers and herders as part of non-kinetic measures, to promote peaceful farming and reduce tensions.

Nigerian Army vows to intensify war against criminals in Plateau