Troops Repel Armed Herders During Illegal Grazing Operation in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), have repelled an attack by suspected armed herders during an operation against illegal grazing in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:20 p.m. on June 29 after troops of Sector 8 responded to reports of armed herders grazing cattle in restricted areas around Kwahas Village.
According to the sources, the troops were deployed to the area following intelligence on illegal grazing activities in violation of existing restrictions.
Read Also:
On arrival at the location, the armed herders reportedly opened fire on the troops.
The troops responded with superior firepower, successfully repelling the attack and forcing the assailants to flee with their cattle in disarray.
Security sources disclosed that the troops expended 10 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition during the exchange.
No casualty was reported among the troops.
Following the encounter, the troops dominated the general area and commenced offensive clearance operations to prevent the armed herders from regrouping and to restore security in the affected community.
Military authorities said operations would continue across vulnerable areas to curb illegal grazing, protect farming communities and deny criminal elements freedom of action.