[UPDATED] Mangu Killings: GOC Moves Tactical Office to Mangu, Launches Operation Hard Nut

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Maxwell Dangana, has relocated his tactical office to Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State for two weeks as the military launches Operation Hard Nut to flush out terrorists and restore peace following Tuesday’s deadly attack on the Bi Mper community.

Dangana announced the move while addressing troops at the Mangu Local Government Council headquarters during a show of force, shortly after the attack that left 25 people dead.

The GOC directed the troops to remain professional and neutral in the discharge of their duties, assuring residents that the military would intensify efforts to secure communities in Mangu and other parts of Plateau State.

He said Operation Hard Nut would focus on clearing terrorists and other criminal elements from the area while restoring the confidence of residents affected by repeated attacks.

Dangana also disclosed that the Chief of Army Staff had approved the deployment of additional troops and equipment to support the operation.

He said the reinforcements would boost the military’s capacity to confront the attackers and protect vulnerable communities.

The GOC assured residents that the Army would work relentlessly to make Mangu safe, adding that his decision to relocate his tactical office to the area was aimed at providing direct supervision of the operation.

He also urged residents to provide credible information that could help security agencies identify and apprehend terrorists and other criminal elements operating in the area.

Police Arrest Key Suspect

The Plateau State Police Command on Wednesday announced the arrest of a key suspect allegedly linked to the deadly attack.

The attack on Kombun District, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, claimed 25 lives and left four others injured.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo, confirmed the arrest to Channels Television, saying the suspect in custody was believed to be the mastermind of the attack.

He added that investigations were ongoing, while security operatives were conducting a manhunt for other suspects who fled the scene.

The latest incident is reportedly the third attack recorded in Mangu within a week. Local sources said one person was shot in the previous attack.

The renewed violence has heightened concerns among residents, who are calling on the government and security agencies to strengthen security and prevent further attacks on communities in the area.