The fight against arms trafficking in Taraba State has continued to record significant gains following a successful intelligence-led operation by troops of the 6 Brigade, Sector 3 of Operation WHIRL STROKE, which resulted in the arrest of suspected gun runners and the recovery of arms and ammunition.
The Brigade made this known in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its Acting Spokesperson, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad. He said the operation was carried out in collaboration with operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).
According to the statement, the operation followed the earlier arrest of two suspected gun runners, identified as Mr. Christopher Adamu and Mr. James Yangyang. The suspects were apprehended on January 11 and 12, 2026, at Sebos Joint in Mayo Dassa, Jalingo Local Government Area, and at Tautre Village in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area, respectively.
The statement explained that the arrests were the result of sustained surveillance and carefully planned operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
It further noted that the success of the operation was largely due to credible intelligence provided by well-meaning members of the public.
Acting on additional intelligence, troops of 6 Brigade, Sector 3, later conducted a coordinated cordon-and-search operation at Murubai Village in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area. During the operation, one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and four rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the residence of a suspected arms trafficker, Mr. Bazoe John, who is currently on the run.
The military described the operation as professionally executed, stressing that it was carried out with precision and restraint and ended without casualties or any form of incident.
The statement added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and recover more weapons as part of measures to deny criminal elements freedom of action in the area.
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Commending the troops for their success, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, praised their courage, dedication, and professionalism.
He said the achievement highlighted the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s determination to curb arms proliferation and other criminal activities in the state.
The commander urged the troops to sustain the momentum while maintaining high standards of discipline and respect for civil authority. He added that the operation underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Army and Operation WHIRL STROKE to safeguarding lives and property and ensuring peace and stability in Taraba State and its environs.
He also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to strengthen collective security efforts.
