Security personnel from Operation Enduring Peace struck early Monday morning in Plateau State, detaining 14 people believed to be linked to illegal mining and street-level crime.
The raid took place around 9:30 a.m. on September 7, 2026, in Jos South Local Government Area.
Troops from Sector 1, Sub-Sector 12 targeted a site behind the New Government House on Shinko Road. Officials described the location as a suspected base for criminal activity.
Seven of those held face allegations of illegal mining. Soldiers seized a pumping machine, three hoses and an excavator from the site.
On their way back, the same unit intercepted another group of seven men labelled as suspected hoodlums.
From them, troops recovered seven motorcycles, four mobile phones and a substance believed to be cannabis.
All 14 suspects underwent initial profiling before transfer to the Joint Task Force OPEP headquarters for further investigation and possible charges.
“This kind of coordinated action shows we will not allow illegal mining or other criminal networks to operate freely in Plateau,” a senior OPEP officer involved in the operation stated. “Residents deserve safety, and we are determined to deliver it.”
The arrests form part of wider security efforts across the state aimed at disrupting illegal mining operations and reducing related threats.
Authorities continue to urge the public to share timely information that can help keep communities secure.