Nigerian troops have arrested two suspected terrorists believed to be connected to the recent attempted attack on the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State. The suspects were apprehended on July 4, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation by troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) at the Trade Centre in Jos South . One suspect was identified as Mr Aboi, while the identity of the second suspect has not yet been officially released .
The arrests were carried out by troops of Sector 6 at about 3:30 p.m. on July 4 . The suspects are currently undergoing interrogation to help security agencies identify and apprehend other members of the alleged criminal network . A security source said: “The suspects are being exploited for further intelligence that could lead to the arrest of other members of the group involved in the attack” .
The arrests followed the attempted attack on the NIPSS facility on July 2, 2026, during which troops engaged suspected attackers in a gun battle . One suspect was killed during the confrontation, while others escaped into nearby rocky terrain . No casualties were recorded among the troops .
During the July 2 operation, troops recovered a service rifle bearing registration number CO-3175 . Military authorities confirmed the weapon had been stolen from a soldier killed during an earlier attack on troops at the Federal College of Land Resources Technology, Vom, on April 11, 2026 . The rifle was loaded with 16 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition .
The arrests have prompted security agencies to expand investigations into possible links between the recent attacks on security personnel operating along the Kuru-Vom axis . Troops have since intensified area domination patrols, clearance operations, and pursuit activities around NIPSS Kuru and adjoining communities to prevent further attacks and reassure residents .
The Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM) has rejected claims that the attackers were members of the Berom ethnic group. In a statement, the group said: “The Berom nation does not have any militia group” . The association called on security agencies and journalists to rely only on verified information when reporting security incidents .
The arrest of the two suspects marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the repeated attacks on NIPSS Kuru. Military authorities are yet to issue an official statement naming the suspects or announcing formal charges, while investigations continue . The incident has raised fresh concerns over security around one of the country’s foremost policy training centres .
