Troops of 6 Brigade, Sector 3, Operation WHIRL STROKE, have recorded a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal arms trafficking in Taraba State following a successful intelligence-led operation that led to the arrest of suspected gun runners and the recovery of weapons and ammunition.
The operation, conducted in collaboration with operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), followed the earlier arrest of two suspected gun runners, identified as Mr Christopher Adamu and Mr James Yangyang. The suspects were apprehended on January 11 and 12, 2026, at Sebos Joint in Mayo Dassa, Jalingo Local Government Area, and Tautre Village in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area, respectively. Military sources said the arrests were the outcome of sustained surveillance and deliberate operational planning aimed at dismantling criminal networks involved in the proliferation of small arms within the brigade’s Area of Responsibility.
Building on this success and acting on further credible intelligence, troops of 6 Brigade, Sector 3, carried out a coordinated cordon-and-search operation at Murubai Village in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area. During the operation, one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and four rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the residence of a suspected arms trafficker, Mr Bazoe John, who is currently on the run.
The military said the operation was executed with precision and restraint, and concluded without casualties or incidents, underscoring the discipline and professionalism of the troops. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and recover additional weapons as part of sustained operations to deny criminal elements freedom of action.
Commending the troops, the Commander of 6 Brigade and Sector 3, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, praised their courage, dedication, and professionalism. He noted that the success highlighted the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s resolve to curb arms proliferation and other criminal activities in the area. The commander urged the troops to sustain the momentum while maintaining the highest standards of discipline and respect for civil authority, assuring them of continued support from higher headquarters.
The Nigerian Army reiterated that the operation reflects the commitment of 6 Brigade 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 were encouraged to continue to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information to enhance collective security efforts.
