Troops of the 6 Brigade, Sector 3 under ‘Operation Whirl Stroke’, in collaboration with Sector 2 ‘Operation Safe Haven’ have arrested a suspected gunrunner, and a high profile bandit leader in Taraba State.
The suspect, identified as Alhaji Mansur Mohammad, was intercepted in Donga Local Government Area with ₦1.2 million, allegedly intended for the illegal purchase of arms.
According to a statement released on Sunday, by the acting spokesperson of the brigade, Capt. Oni Olubodunde, investigations linked the funds to sponsors in Bauchi State.
On the same day, troops also arrested a notorious bandit leader, Adamu Yakubu, implicated in multiple cases of banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and violent crimes across Katsina-Ala Local Government Area in Benue State and southern Taraba.
Intelligence reports revealed that Yakubu and his gang were responsible for the brutal attack on Tse-Shiikaa Village on March 10, 2025, where two people were killed and several others injured.
In a separate operation, the army raided the residence of two notorious gunrunners in Mararraba Donga, Donga Local Government Area.
The suspects, identified as Irimiya Aboki and Tanko Adamu (alias Arewa Mafia), managed to escape, but a search of their hideout led to the recovery of four pistols, one pump-action rifle, and six cartridges.
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“As part of ‘Operation Lafiyan Jamma’, troops launched an offensive on March 22, 2025, targeting Achalle, a border community between Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State and Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
“The troops engaged bandits in a fierce battle, successfully dislodging them and recovering a motorcycle before advancing deeper into a key bandit stronghold.
“At another location, which housed over 70 huts and served as a major operational base for criminals, troops encountered resistance but overpowered the bandits, forcing them to flee.
“Among the recovered items was an international passport belonging to one Muhammadu Dahiru, suspected to be linked to the criminal network. The entire camp was destroyed and set ablaze, further crippling bandit activities in the region,” the statement said.
Troops, according to the statement, also extended their operations to the Dutsen Zaki high ground, clearing the area and neutralizing additional threats.
The statement added that overwhelmed by the achievements, the Commander of the 6 Brigade, Brig. Gen. Kingsley Uwa, commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism.
He reassured residents that the brigade remains committed to sustained military operations, until banditry and other criminal activities are eradicated.
Brig. Gen. Uwa urged the public to remain vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence to ensure lasting peace and security in the region.
