Nigerian Army Troops Neutralise Assailant, Recover Stolen Service Rifle at NIPSS

Troops of Sector 6, Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), have foiled an attack by suspected armed criminals on a guard post at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, in Jos South Local Government Area.

The incident occurred at about 12:10 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, when the attackers allegedly attempted to breach the institute’s perimeter under the cover of darkness. Alert troops responded swiftly, engaging the assailants in a fierce gun battle.

During the exchange, one of the attackers was neutralised, while others reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds into the surrounding high ground. The troops recorded no casualties.

A statement said troops recovered an AK-pattern rifle bearing registration number CO-3175 from the neutralised suspect. The weapon, loaded with 16 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, was confirmed to belong to a Nigerian Army soldier who was killed in action during an earlier encounter with unidentified militia elements at the Federal College of Land Resources Technology, Vom, on April 11, 2026.

The recovered rifle has been taken into military custody as investigations continue to determine possible links between the suspect and previous attacks within the Kuru-Vom axis. The remains of the neutralised assailant have been evacuated to a mortuary through the appropriate authorities.

Following the operation, troops intensified area domination patrols, clearance operations and pursuit missions around NIPSS Kuru and adjoining communities to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of residents, staff and critical national assets.

Military authorities said the security situation remains under control, with normal activities continuing within the institute and surrounding communities.

The Nigerian Army, through Operation ENDURING PEACE, reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives, safeguarding strategic national institutions and restoring lasting peace across Plateau State.

It also urged members of the public to remain vigilant, go about their lawful activities without fear and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies, stressing that public cooperation remains crucial to strengthening national security.