A soldier has been killed after gunmen attacked troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) at a military checkpoint in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State. The attackers also escaped with two weapons.
The attack happened around 8pm on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Sopp Checkpoint in Ungwan Boka community.
According to Daily Trust, troops were on duty when the gunmen suddenly opened fire, killing one soldier and taking his rifle.
Security sources said the attackers fired from different directions, forcing the soldiers to respond with gunfire before the gunmen escaped into nearby bushes.
“The attack occurred while the troops were keeping vigil at the checkpoint,” the source said.
“The gunmen opened fire from different directions, forcing the troops to engage them in a gun battle.”
Confirming the incident, OPEP spokesman, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, described it as a deliberate and unprovoked attack. He said troops had been deployed to restore normalcy.
“It was a deliberate and unprovoked attack on troops at Sopp Check Point, Ungwan Boka in Riyom Local Government Area,” Captain Oteh said.
He added that troops were pursuing the attackers to arrest them and recover the stolen weapons.
Oteh said the situation was under control, while security personnel remained on high alert to prevent further attacks and reassure residents.
He urged the public to remain calm, continue their lawful activities and provide useful information to security agencies.
