By Sylvanus Viashima, Jalingo
Troops from the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, part of Sector 3 Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), have killed three bandits, destroyed their camps, and recovered arms in a clearance operation in Taraba State.
The mission took place on 5 April 2025 in Karim Lamido Local Government Area.
Captain Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 6 Brigade, shared this in a statement late Saturday in Jalingo. He said the effort, under Operation Lafiya Jamaal, aims to eliminate bandits and criminals across the state.
The statement read: “In continuation of the ongoing military operations codenamed OPERATION LAFIYA JAMAA, aimed at flushing out criminal elements from Taraba State, gallant troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have successfully neutralised 3 bandits, destroyed several camps, and recovered arms and ammunition in a daring clearance operation conducted on 5 April 2025 in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.”
It added: “The operation, which targeted suspected bandits’ hideouts, saw troops advancing to Achalle where they thoroughly cleared the general area before projecting further force to Chibi. On arrival at Chibi, the troops made contact with the bandits, who began fleeing upon sighting the advancing forces. In the engagement that ensued, 3 bandits were neutralised, and several makeshift camps used by the criminals were destroyed.”
Troops seized items, recovering “2 motorcycles, 1 AK-47 magazine, and 13 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition from the scene,” the statement noted.
They also swept Dutsen Zaki and Achalle, where over 70 criminal camps have been dismantled recently, showing no signs of activity this time.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade, praised the troops. “While commending the troops for their resilience and tactical success, [he] reassured the good people of Taraba State that there will be no safe haven for terrorists and criminal elements in the state,” the statement said.
He urged residents to stay vigilant and share timely tips with security forces to boost safety.