Troops of the Nigerian Army, operating under Operation Enduring Peace, have begun an extensive stop-and-search exercise across the Jos metropolis in Plateau State following a recent violent attack in Jos North that left over 28 people dead and more than 50 injured.

According to a statement by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Captain Chinonso Oteh, the operation commenced on Friday as part of broader efforts to restore calm and safeguard lives and property across the state.

The military disclosed that early gains have already been recorded, with troops arresting two suspects and recovering a fabricated AK-47 rifle, four rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and a pump-action gun.

These operations were carried out across identified flashpoints and key transit routes, including Jos North and Jos South, as well as areas such as Dadinkowa, Old Airport Junction, Tudun Wada, and the low-cost housing estate.

In a related development, troops responded swiftly to reports of sporadic gunfire at the Yelwa Cattle Market in Shendam. The attackers, described as unidentified gunmen, were forced to retreat into nearby bushes following pressure from security forces.

Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters confirmed that the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has approved the deployment of 850 additional troops to Plateau State to reinforce ongoing operations and contain the worsening security situation.

The move comes after the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, revealed that both residents and security personnel were caught off guard by the recent attack, noting that the state had experienced a prolonged period of relative peace prior to the incident.

Speaking on a television programme, the governor explained that the community had been blindsided, as people had gathered in large numbers on a Sunday evening, unaware of the impending violence.

Military authorities emphasised that the deployment of additional personnel is aimed at strengthening efforts to de-escalate tensions and restore law and order across affected communities.

Addressing troops at the Joint Task Force headquarters in Jos, the Chief of Army Staff urged personnel to remain disciplined, professional, and resolute in confronting criminal elements threatening public safety. He also assured them that adequate logistics and operational support have been provided to ensure mission success.