Troops under Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have taken into custody a 25-year-old suspected kidnapping kingpin, Anas Usman, in connection with the abduction and killing of a Fulani community leader, Alhaji Lawal Abubakar Wakili of Kekong in Gashish District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The arrest was carried out at about 6:00 p.m. on May 8, 2026 during a coordinated security operation involving troops of Sector 7 (Sub-Sector 71) Sanga, working alongside 4 Special Forces in Akwanga.
Security sources said the operation was based on credible intelligence that linked the suspect to the violent incident in the Gashish area of Barkin Ladi LGA.
The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation as investigators continue efforts to uncover additional members of the criminal network believed to be involved.
Authorities also noted that ongoing operations are aimed at tracking and dismantling other suspected kidnapping cells operating within the region.
The arrest is part of broader intensified military efforts under Operation Enduring Peace to curb kidnapping, armed violence, and related criminal activity across Plateau State and neighbouring areas.
