In a decisive operation against criminal elements, troops from the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, in conjunction with Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), successfully dismantled a notorious bandit camp in Angwan Bala, located within the Kambari area of Karim Lamido Local Government Area, Taraba State, on February 2, 2025.
Confirming the report Acting Assistant Director 6 Brigade Army Public Relations Captain Olubodunde Oni said the operation, which followed credible intelligence on the movement of suspected bandits, began with a strategically planned fighting patrol to the identified hideout. Upon sighting the patrol team, the bandits opened fire, initiating a fierce exchange of gunfire.
He said the Nigerian Army’s swift and overwhelming response resulted in the neutralization of one bandit, while 23 others—including 19 males and 4 females—surrendered without further resistance, marking a significant success for the operation.
Oni added that a comprehensive search of the camp uncovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition, including four AK-47 rifles, five AK-47 rifle magazines, 80 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one English-made pistol, two locally made guns, 28 cutlasses, 16 motorcycles, 48 daggers, and jack knives. These findings have raised further concerns about the scale of armed criminal activity in the region.
He said preliminary investigations have revealed that the bandits, believed to be originally from Plateau State, had allegedly paid a local chief in Amar village a sum of ₦1,500,000 to facilitate the establishment of their camp in the area. This discovery underscores the growing complexity of criminal networks and the involvement of local actors in facilitating illegal activities.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, the Commander of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, spoke about the success of the operation, emphasizing that it is a testament to the Army’s commitment to safeguarding Taraba State and its surrounding areas. “This operation highlights our unwavering resolve to eliminate criminal elements, restore lasting peace, and ensure that Taraba State does not become a sanctuary for terrorists. We will continue to work diligently with all relevant stakeholders to maintain the fight against insecurity,” General Uwa affirmed.
The General also called on the public to remain vigilant and assist the security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, noting the critical role of community cooperation in combating banditry and other forms of criminality. His remarks come as the Nigerian Army intensifies its efforts to restore law and order and prevent the spread of violent crime in the region.
The success of this operation is expected to send a strong message to criminal groups operating within Taraba and neighboring states, further deterring attempts to destabilize the region.
