Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, have intensified offensive operations in Southern Taraba, dislodging armed terrorists and recovering 91 rustled cattle in a series of coordinated clearance missions.
According to Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army Lt. Umar Muhammad, the operations, carried out between 24 and 25 November 2025, covered Akesha, Zambana Forest and Ayu Village in Takum and Donga Local Government Areas. They targeted suspected armed herdsmen and criminal groups accused of attacks on communities, destruction of farmlands and displacement of residents.
Acting on credible intelligence, troops advanced on multiple hideouts, forcing the suspects to flee. During the sweep of Akesha village on 24 November, soldiers recovered 91 cattle abandoned by fleeing rustlers while grazing on farmlands. The livestock were secured to prevent further damage and to sever their use as support assets for criminal activities.
On 25 November, troops encountered terrorists in Zambana Forest and Ayu Village and overpowered them with superior firepower, compelling them to retreat deeper into the forest. The Army said the assault further weakened the terrorists’ operational capability.
The clearance operations also allowed displaced farmers to return to their fields and safely evacuate harvested crops previously inaccessible due to threats from armed groups.
Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, who addressed troops and residents after the operation, reaffirmed the Brigade’s determination to maintain aggressive pressure across Southern Taraba. He said the tempo of Operation Zafin Wuta would not slow down, especially as the yuletide season approaches.
On the recovered cattle, he directed all claimants to report to 93 Battalion in Takum for verification, stressing that no livestock would be released until rightful owners compensate farmers whose fields were damaged.
General Uwa condemned the persistent violence linked to marauding herders, describing their activities as a major driver of insecurity in the area. He also warned herders migrating into Taraba from neighbouring states to register with traditional rulers and local authorities before settling in any community, saying such procedures are crucial for preventing conflict.
He reiterated that Operation Zafin Wuta remains committed to dismantling criminal networks, protecting farming communities and ensuring livestock activities do not threaten peace or food security in Southern Taraba.
The Nigerian Army urged residents to continue providing credible information to support ongoing operations and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property.
