By Bavoriat Clara
Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke have neutralised two suspected bandits and recovered arms and other items during a clearance operation in Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The operation, carried out by troops deployed at Sarkin Kudu, followed credible intelligence on the activities of suspected bandits operating from a hideout around the Dooshima District in the area.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, troops swiftly mobilised to the location on May 18, 2026, for a tactical raid aimed at flushing out criminal elements threatening peace and security in the state.
On reaching the hideout, the troops reportedly engaged the armed suspects in a fierce gun battle. During the exchange of fire, two suspected bandits were neutralised, while others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.
Items recovered during the operation included one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, one locally fabricated pistol, one Android phone, three small mobile phones, and two charm vests, alongside other personal belongings.
The statement noted that the recovered items are currently in military custody and would be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and necessary action.
Reacting to the development, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, commended the troops for their bravery, swift response, and professionalism during the operation.
Brigadier General Akaliro said the operation aligned with the directive of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, aimed at flushing out criminal elements and restoring lasting peace and security across Taraba State and neighbouring communities.
He assured that the Brigade’s reward and sanction system would be applied to the soldiers involved in the successful operation, while reiterating the military’s commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against all forms of criminality in the state.
The Brigade Commander also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to aid ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.
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