By Peter Omopo
Troops of the Headquarters 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, have killed two bandits, destroyed several hideouts, and arrested a key suspect during a coordinated operation in Taraba State.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations for the Brigade, Lt. Umar Muhammad.
According to the statement, the troops launched a deliberate clearance mission on December 2 under the code name Operation Zafin Wuta, targeting criminal hideouts across Shiid, Agia, and Tyozua communities in Takum Local Government Area.
The operation was triggered by credible intelligence reports indicating the presence of armed groups operating within the Tor-Tser axis.
“As the soldiers advanced towards the mountainous hideouts, the bandits fled deeper into the rugged terrain, abandoning their camps,” the army said, adding that the troops conducted a thorough search before destroying the hideouts, which the criminals had boasted were inaccessible to security forces.
In Tyozua, the fleeing bandits reportedly set ablaze a wooden bridge in a failed attempt to slow down troop movement. Despite the obstruction, the soldiers pushed forward and forced the criminals across the powerline into neighbouring Benue State.
During the operation, the troops apprehended a key suspect identified as Dahiru Maigari, who is currently undergoing preliminary investigation.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal elements and ensuring peace across Taraba and adjoining states.
