Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke have neutralised two suspected bandits and recovered arms during a clearance operation in Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The operation, conducted around the Sarkin Kudu axis of Ibi LGA, followed intelligence reports on the activities of armed criminals hiding within the Dooshima District area, according to the army.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, the troops launched a tactical raid on the suspected hideout after receiving credible intelligence on May 18.
The statement said troops encountered the armed suspects upon arrival at the location, leading to a fierce gun battle.
“During the encounter, troops successfully neutralised two suspected bandits, while others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds,” the statement said.
Items recovered during the operation included one AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, a locally fabricated pistol, an Android phone, three mobile phones, two charm vests, and other personal belongings.
The army said all recovered items remain in custody and would be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and necessary action.
Commander of 6 Brigade NA/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, commended the troops for what he described as their courage and swift response during the operation.
Akaliro said the operation aligned with the directive of the Chief of Army Staff to intensify efforts against criminal groups threatening peace and security across Taraba State and neighbouring areas.
He also assured that soldiers involved in the successful raid would benefit from the brigade’s reward system, while reiterating the military’s commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against criminal elements.
The brigade further urged residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing security operations in the state.
