Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 3 of ‘Operation Whirl Stroke’ have neutralized a bandit and recovered arms and ammunition during a series of operations in Taraba State.
The development was disclosed on Tuesday, in a statement released by the brigade’s spokesperson, Capt. Oni Olubodunde, in Jalingo.
He said the operations were carried out in Kwanchi Village and other parts of Karim-Lamido Local Government Area as part of intensified military efforts to curb insecurity following recent deadly attacks in the area.
According to Capt. Olubodunde, the troops encountered armed bandits on May 26, during a patrol in Kwanchi Village.
“A hot pursuit ensued after contact was made with the criminals. During the operation, one of the military motorcycles broke down and was left temporarily in the village.
“Upon returning, the soldiers discovered the motorcycle had gone missing, prompting a swift follow-up operation,” the army said.
The brigade spokesman added that a search led to the discovery of three policemen and a civilian, identified as Alhaji Munga.
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He said during questioning, a phone call was made to one Alhaji Lamido, who claimed the missing motorcycle had been taken to Kudeh Village near a riverbank.
“Troops mobilized to the area but came under sudden attack by armed bandits.
“The soldiers engaged the assailants in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to flee and abandon their hideout.
“Weapons and items recovered during the operation include a Dane gun, a locally made pistol, and four motorcycles,” he added.
Reacting to the successful mission, Commander of the 6 Brigade, Brig. Gen. Kingsley Uwa, praised the troops for their swift action and professionalism.
“This operation demonstrates our resolve to take the fight to criminal elements wherever they are hiding. The safety and security of citizens in Taraba State remain our top priority,” he said.
He called on the public to continue cooperating with security forces by providing credible and timely information, reaffirming the military’s commitment to eradicating crime and restoring peace in Taraba State through ‘Operation Lafiyan Jamaa’.