Troops of 6 Brigade, Sector 3, Operation WHIRL STROKE, have successfully arrested  suspected gunrunners and  recovered arms and ammunition in Taraba State.

In a statement by the Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army on Thursday, the operation conducted in conjunction with operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency, followed the earlier arrest of two suspected gun runners, Mr. Christopher Adamu and Mr. James Yangyang.

They were arrested at Sebos Joint in Mayo Dassa, Jalingo Local Government Area, and Tautre Village in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area, on 11 and 12 January 2026, respectively.

These arrests were achieved through sustained surveillance and deliberate operational planning aimed at dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal proliferation of small arms within the Area of Responsibility.

Building on this success and acting on credible and actionable intelligence, troops of 6 Brigade, Sector 3, conducted a well-coordinated cordon and search operation at Murubai Village in Ardo-Kola LGA. During the operation, troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and four rounds of live ammunition from the residence of Mr Bazoe John, a suspected arms trafficker who is currently at large.

The operation was executed with precision, restraint, and respect for civil authority, and was concluded successfully without casualty or incident, reflecting the high level of discipline, professionalism, and operational competence of the troops.

“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and to recover additional weapons, as part of sustained measures to deny criminal elements freedom of action.

Commending the troops for the successful operation, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, the Commander 6 Brigade / Sector 3, Operation WHIRL STROKE, praised their courage, dedication, and professionalism.

He noted that the success underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the resolve of the Nigerian Army to decisively tackle arms proliferation and other criminal activities within the Area of Responsibility.

The Commander urged the troops to sustain the momentum while maintaining the highest standards of discipline and respect for civil authority, assuring them of continuous support from higher headquarters.

The operation further reinforces the commitment of 6 Brigade NA and Operation WHIRL STROKE to safeguarding lives and property and ensuring lasting peace and stability in Taraba State and its environs. Members of the public are encouraged to continue to support security forces by providing timely and credible information, as collective vigilance remains vital to sustaining peace and security.