Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have neutralised two suspected bandits during a clearance operation in Sarkin Kudu, Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State.
In a statement Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad said the operation, carried out by soldiers deployed to the area, was based on credible intelligence received on 18 May 2026 indicating the presence of armed criminals in a hideout within Dooshima District.
Acting swiftly on the report, the troops mobilised to the location and came into contact with the suspected bandits, resulting in a fierce exchange of gunfire. Two of the suspects were killed during the encounter, while others reportedly escaped with gunshot injuries.
Items recovered from the scene include one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, one locally fabricated pistol, an Android phone, three small mobile phones, and two charm vests, among other personal effects. The recovered items are currently in military custody for further investigation and processing.
Reacting to the operation, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, commended the troops for their professionalism, courage and swift response, describing the operation as aligned with ongoing efforts to rid Taraba State of criminal elements.
He reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to sustaining offensive operations against armed groups and other criminal networks, in line with directives of the Chief of Army Staff aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across the state and surrounding areas.
Akaliro also assured that the Brigade’s reward and sanction framework would be applied appropriately, while urging residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies.
