Army intensifies operations in Taraba, destroys bandits camps, arrests criminal operative

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade, under Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, OPWS, have stepped up security operations across Taraba State, achieving significant successes including the destruction of bandits’ camps, neutralisation of armed suspects, recovery of weapons, and the arrest of a key criminal operative.

Soldiers, on Tuesday, December 2, launched a clearance operation under Operation Zafin Wuta targeting Shiid, Agia, and Tyozua villages in Takum Local Government Area. According to military sources, troops acted on credible intelligence identifying armed groups operating in the Tor-Tser area. As soldiers advanced toward the mountainous hideouts, bandits fled, abandoning their camps, which were later destroyed by the army.

During the operation, fleeing bandits attempted to block troop movements in Tyozua by setting a wooden bridge on fire, but soldiers pressed forward, forcing the criminals across a power line into neighbouring Benue State. One suspect, Dahiru Maigari, was arrested and is currently undergoing preliminary investigation.

Further operations on Thursday involved a fighting patrol around Karim Lamido to restrict bandits’ movement. While approaching Usmanu, troops came under fire from armed elements hiding near Wudompi Community.

The army repelled the attack, neutralising two armed men and recovering an AK-47 rifle with 21 rounds of ammunition. There were no casualties among the soldiers. The attackers are believed to belong to the Karimjo faction, which has been attempting to regroup in the area. Security in Karim Lamido remains calm, with troops maintaining heightened vigilance.

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, praised the troops for their professionalism and courage, noting that the operations demonstrate the army’s ability to operate across difficult terrains and pursue criminals wherever they flee.

Residents of Taraba State have welcomed the intensified operations, expressing hope that sustained military pressure will restore security and deter future bandit attacks.