The Nigerian Army has deployed 178 personnel to Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State as security operations are intensified following renewed violence in the area.
The troops, drawn from the 236 Tank Battalion, were deployed to the headquarters of Sector 8 of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) on 25 September.
The contingent arrived in two groups of 89 personnel and was led by the battalion’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel H.O. Obire.
According to security sources cited by Zagazola Makama, the troops immediately began familiarising themselves with the sector’s area of responsibility and its operational mandate. (Zagazola Media Network)
The deployment comes amid heightened security concerns in Mangu and neighbouring communities, where attacks, killings, livestock destruction and reprisal incidents have been reported in recent weeks.
The military is expected to use the additional personnel to strengthen its presence in vulnerable communities, improve its response to emerging threats and support efforts to protect civilians.
The latest deployment follows a broader intensification of military operations in Mangu. In August, the tactical headquarters of Operation Enduring Peace was moved from Jos to Mangu following a series of deadly attacks, while the Army also launched Operation Hard Knock to tackle armed groups operating in the area. (Premium Times Nigeria)
The Army says the additional troops will work alongside other security and response agencies to enhance coordination and maintain security across communities within the sector’s area of responsibility.
