Troops from the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have eliminated a bandit and seized a cache of weapons during a raid on a criminal hideout in Angwan Bala, Kambari area of Karim Lamido Local Government, Taraba State.
The operation, carried out on February 2, was based on credible intelligence regarding the movement of suspected bandits, according to a statement released by the Brigade on Monday.
“Upon arriving at the hideout, the troops faced resistance as the bandits opened fire. However, the soldiers swiftly overpowered them, resulting in the neutralization of one bandit, while 23 others—19 men and four women—surrendered,” the statement read.
A thorough search of the camp uncovered a large stockpile of weapons, including four AK-47 rifles, five AK-47 magazines, 80 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, an English-made pistol, two locally crafted firearms, 28 cutlasses, 48 daggers and jackknives, and 16 motorcycles.
Initial investigations revealed that the bandits, originally from Plateau State, had paid ₦1.5 million to a local chief in Amar village to establish their camp in the area.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, praised the troops for their efforts and reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to maintaining security in Taraba and its surroundings.
“This operation demonstrates our determination to eliminate criminal elements and ensure Taraba does not become a refuge for terrorists,” he stated.
He also urged the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies, emphasizing the crucial role of community cooperation in the fight against insecurity.