Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE have successfully foiled a midnight attack on NIPSS in Kuru, Plateau State, killing one suspected armed assailant and recovering a Nigerian Army rifle stolen from a soldier who was killed during an earlier attack. The military described the operation as a major security breakthrough in ongoing efforts to protect critical national institutions.
Key Highlights
- Troops repel midnight attack on NIPSS in Kuru, Plateau State.
- One suspected armed assailant killed during gun battle.
- Nigerian Army rifle stolen from a fallen soldier recovered.
- Other suspects escape with suspected gunshot wounds.
- Security forces launch pursuit and area domination operations.
- Army assures residents that NIPSS and surrounding communities remain secure.
The attempted attack occurred at about 12:10 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, when suspected armed criminals allegedly attempted to breach the perimeter of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) under the cover of darkness.
Alert troops deployed to secure the facility responded immediately, engaging the attackers in a fierce exchange of gunfire that forced the assailants to retreat.
According to the Nigerian Army, one of the suspects was neutralised during the operation, while several others fled into nearby highlands with suspected gunshot wounds. The Army confirmed that no soldier was killed or injured during the encounter.
A subsequent search of the scene led to the recovery of an AK-pattern rifle bearing registration number CO-3175, loaded with 16 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the recovered weapon belonged to a Nigerian Army soldier who was killed in action during an attack by unidentified militia elements on the Federal College of Land Resources Technology, Vom, on April 11, 2026.
Military authorities said the rifle has been secured as evidence while investigations continue to determine whether the attackers are connected to previous violent incidents within the Kuru-Vom axis.
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The body of the neutralised suspect has been evacuated to a mortuary through the appropriate authorities.
Following the failed attack, troops launched intensified area domination patrols, clearance operations and pursuit missions across NIPSS Kuru and neighbouring communities to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent further security threats.
The Nigerian Army reassured residents that the security situation remains under control, stressing that activities at NIPSS and surrounding communities are continuing without disruption.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical national assets and restoring lasting peace across Plateau State, while urging members of the public to continue providing credible and timely intelligence to support ongoing security operations.
