Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have recorded a significant operational success with the recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition during an intelligence-driven operation in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
According to Acting Media Information Officer HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the operation, carried out on 4 January 2026, followed actionable intelligence on the movement of an associate linked to a notorious criminal kingpin, identified as John Ngata. Acting on the tip-off, OPWS troops deployed from Zaki-Biam swiftly established a snap roadblock along the suspected route and intercepted the suspect without incident.
Following preliminary interrogation, the suspect led the troops to a concealed armoury at Amadu Village in Takum LGA. A subsequent search of the location resulted in the recovery of 13 AK-47 rifles, 39 AK-47 magazines, 690 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and four hand grenades.
Military sources said the armoury was professionally destroyed to prevent further use, after which the troops safely withdrew to base.
Commending the operation, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their professionalism, swift response and effective use of intelligence, noting that the operation disrupted a major criminal supply chain.
Major General Gara reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining high troop morale through improved welfare, logistics support and operational readiness. He also appreciated members of the public for their continued cooperation and provision of credible intelligence, stressing that community support remains critical to the success of security operations within the Joint Operations Area.
The Force Commander urged residents to continue to share timely and actionable information with security agencies, assuring them of confidentiality and prompt response, as Operation WHIRL STROKE remains committed to ensuring peace, stability and the protection of lives and property. He further expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff for strategic guidance and to the Service Chiefs for their sustained support to the operation.
