From Ben Adaji, Jalingo
Troops of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army and Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke, OPWS, on Sunday, neutralised bandits camp and arrested 23 criminals in Angwan Bala, Kambari area of Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.
According to the Acting Assistant Director, Public Relations, 6 Brigade, Captain Olubodunde Oni, troops, while acting on credible intelligence regarding the movement of suspected bandits in the area, conducted a fighting patrol at the identified hideout.
Oni said on sighting the patrol team, the bandits opened fire, prompting immediate and overwhelming response from the troops. In the ensuing firefight, one bandit was killed, while 23 others, including four females surrendered without resistance.
He disclosed that comprehensive search of the camp led to the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition, including four AK-47 rifles, five AK-47 rifle magazines, 80 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one English made pistol, two locally made guns, 28 cutlasses, 16 motorcycles, 48 daggers and jack knives.
He said preliminary investigations revealed that the bandits, originally migrated from Plateau State and had earlier paid a local chief in Amar village the sum of ₦1,500,000 to acquire and establish their camp.
Speaking on the successful operation, the Commander, 6 Brigade, Brigadier-General Kingsley Uwa, reaffirmed the brigade’s unwavering commitment to the safety and stability of Taraba State and its environs.
According to him, “This operation is a testament to our resolve to eliminate criminal elements, restore lasting peace and ensure that Taraba State does not become a safe haven for terrorists. We will continue to work tirelessly with relevant stakeholders to sustain the fight against insecurity,” General Uwa stated.
He encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies, emphasizing the critical role of community cooperation in the fight against banditry and other forms of criminality.
