Fatimah Otunsanya
Troops of Headquarters 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke have neutralised two bandits, destroyed hideouts and arrested a key suspect linked to criminal activities in Taraba State.
This was disclosed in a statement on Thursday by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad.
According to the statement, on December 2, troops launched a deliberate clearance operation, code-named Operation Zafin Wuta, across Shiid, Agia and Tyozua villages in Takum Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, based on credible intelligence regarding armed groups operating within the Tor-Tser general area, was said to have resulted in the arrest of a suspect, Dahiru Maigari.
As the soldiers advanced towards the mountainous hideouts, the bandits fled deeper into the rugged terrain, abandoning their camps. The troops conducted a detailed search before destroying the camps, which the criminals had previously claimed were inaccessible to security forces.
“In Tyozua, the fleeing bandits set ablaze a wooden bridge in an attempt to obstruct troop movement, but the soldiers pressed forward with determination and forced the criminals across the power line into neighbouring Benue State.
“During exploitation, one suspect, identified as Dahiru Maigari, was arrested and is currently undergoing preliminary investigation,” the army reported.
In a related development on December 4, troops were said to have conducted a fighting patrol around Karim Lamido and its environs aimed at denying bandits freedom of movement.
The statement read, “While moving towards Usmanu, the patrol came under fire from armed bandits concealed behind Wudompi Community
The soldiers responded swiftly, repelling the attack and neutralising two of the armed men. A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and 21 rounds of ammunition, with no casualties recorded on the part of own troops.
“The attackers are assessed to be members of the Karimjo faction responsible for recent attempts at regrouping within the area.”
Security within Karim Lamido remains calm, with troops maintaining heightened alertness following the encounter, the army reported.