By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 8, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), have repelled an attack by suspected armed Fulani bandits during a response to reports of farmland destruction at Manja Forest in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
A military source told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 12:45 p.m. on August 11, 2026, following reports that armed herders suspected to be Fulani militias were destroying farmlands in the area.
The troops swiftly mobilised to the location and made contact with the armed group.
A firefight ensued, during which the troops employed superior firepower and forced the militias to withdraw in disarray.
The source said the troops expended 10 rounds of 7.62mm x 54mm ammunition and 19 rounds of 12.7mm x 108mm ammunition during the engagement.
Following the encounter, the troops maintained dominance of the area to prevent the attackers from regrouping or launching further attacks against farmers and other residents.
The troops also engaged community leaders and members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), urging them to sustain neighbourhood watch activities and promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies.
The operation is part of ongoing efforts by Operation Enduring Peace to protect farming communities, prevent attacks and maintain security across vulnerable areas of Plateau State.