Mangu killings: Army moves tactical headquarters, GOC directs fresh offensive

By Kingsley Chukwuka

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Williams Maxwell Dangana, has assumed direct command of military operations in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State following renewed violence in the area.

Dangana, who relocated the Joint Security Task Force’s tactical headquarters from Jos to Mangu, said the military had established a two-week operational timeline to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace across the troubled communities.

The decision followed a deadly attack in Bmper village, where armed assailants reportedly killed more than 25 residents, heightening security concerns across the local government area.

Addressing troops deployed to the area, the GOC said his physical presence on the front line was intended to strengthen the military response and ensure effective coordination of operations.

He said the relocation of the tactical headquarters would facilitate the rapid deployment of additional troops, combat vehicles and specialised equipment to areas affected by the violence.

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Dangana also issued directives on the military’s rules of engagement, urging troops to respond decisively to armed attacks while ensuring that operations remained within established military guidelines.

He directed personnel to protect vulnerable communities and prevent armed groups from exploiting security gaps in the area.

The GOC said the concentrated two-week operation was designed to disrupt criminal networks, halt attacks and create conditions for lasting peace in Mangu.

He assured residents that the military would sustain operations until the security situation was brought under control and communities could return to normal activities.

With the tactical headquarters now operating from Mangu and additional military assets deployed, security forces are expected to intensify patrols, intelligence-led operations and other measures aimed at preventing further attacks in the affected communities.