Troops under Sector 4 of Operation Enduring Peace have recovered the decomposing body of a kidnapped community leader, Alhaji Lawal Abubakar Wakili of Kekong, during a search operation in Gashish District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources said the remains were found around 070930A on May 6, 2026 after soldiers, working with local residents, carried out a joint search across Kurra, Jokko hills, and nearby forest areas.
The community leader was said to have been kidnapped earlier in Gashish, which triggered days of search efforts involving both security forces and villagers.
After the body was recovered, there was tension in parts of the community as some residents demanded the release of suspects already arrested in connection with the case.
Security personnel reportedly stepped in quickly to calm the situation, assuring residents that investigations were ongoing and that justice would be properly followed.
In a related development, a 67-year-old man identified as Chiroma Bello Abdulkarim from Ningon village in Gashish District was arrested over his alleged involvement in the kidnapping and killing.
He is currently in custody and being questioned alongside other suspects linked to the incident.
Authorities said normalcy has returned to the area, while operations are still ongoing to track down other individuals suspected to be connected to the crime.
They added that investigations have been intensified to fully uncover what led to the abduction and ensure everyone involved is held accountable.