Troops Foil Midnight Attack On NIPSS, Kill Gunman

July 2 () — Troops of Sector VI of Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE have foiled a midnight attack by suspected armed assailants on the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, in Plateau State.

The Nigerian Army disclosed the development in a statement posted on its verified Facebook and X platforms on Thursday, saying the attempted attack occurred at about 12:10 a.m. when the assailants tried to breach the perimeter of the nation’s foremost policy institute under the cover of darkness.

According to the Army, vigilant troops immediately engaged the attackers in a gun battle, successfully repelling the assault. One of the suspects was neutralised during the exchange, while others fled with suspected gunshot wounds towards the surrounding high ground.

The Army said no casualties were recorded among troops or personnel at the institute during the encounter. It added that troops recovered an AK-pattern rifle bearing registration number CO-3175, loaded with 16 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, from the neutralised suspect.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the recovered weapon belonged 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.

According to the statement, the rifle has since been taken into military custody, while the remains of the neutralised suspect were evacuated to a mortuary through the appropriate authorities.

The Army said troops have intensified area domination patrols, clearance operations and pursuit of the fleeing suspects around NIPSS, Kuru, and adjoining communities to prevent any further attack and apprehend those responsible.

It explained that the sustained operations are aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of action while ensuring the safety of residents, staff of the institute and other critical national assets in the area.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, securing strategic national institutions and restoring lasting peace in Plateau State.

It also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to rid the area of criminal elements.