Nigerian Army Troops Neutralize Bandit And Recover AK-47 Rifle In Taraba State

Personnel of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 3 of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), have successfully eliminated a suspected armed bandit in Taraba State, retrieving an AK-47 rifle during the mission.

According to a press statement issued on Wednesday by Captain Oni Olubodunde, Acting Public Relations Officer for the Brigade, the operation occurred during a clearance patrol in Karim Lamido Local Government Area.

This recent military engagement was a direct result of a strategic assessment tour conducted by Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, the Brigade Commander, to Bandawa community, where he reiterated the importance of proactive military interventions and enhanced presence to maintain security in the region.

“Following the Commander’s directives, troops on a combative patrol along Bandawa–Karim Lamido Road made contact with armed assailants,” the spokesperson explained.

“In a rapid and accurate response, our personnel neutralized one of the bandits and successfully recovered one AK-47 assault rifle, in addition to 39 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.”

Captain Olubodunde emphasized that the success of the operation reflects the unwavering commitment of the 6 Brigade to eradicate criminal elements from Taraba State and reinforce enduring peace in the region.

Meanwhile, on May 12, 2025, a community peace meeting took place to ease growing tensions between residents of Kashimbila (in Takum LGA, Taraba) and Jato Aka (in Kwande LGA, Benue State).

The continuous unrest between the two communities had previously led to several violent incidents affecting motorists along the Kashimbila–Jato Aka road.

Leadership from the 6 Brigade has urged local residents to remain vigilant and provide timely, verifiable intelligence that will assist military and peacekeeping operations in safeguarding Taraba State.