Troops Neutralise Four Armed Bandits, Arrest Police Personnel Linked to Clashes in Taraba

Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have neutralised four armed bandits and recovered weapons during a swift, coordinated response to renewed communal violence in Usmanu Village, Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.

In a statement signed by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, Lt. Umar Muhammad, the operation was triggered by credible intelligence on the resurgence of long-standing land disputes between the Shomo and Wurkun communities.

According to the statement, the dispute escalated into armed clashes marked by destruction of property, including the burning of houses. In response, the Brigade deployed troops to restore order and prevent further breakdown of law and order.

Upon arrival in the area, the troops reportedly came under fire from armed assailants emerging from the Fadama axis. A brief but intense exchange of gunfire ensued, during which four of the attackers were neutralised.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of:
Three dane guns
One fabricated AK-47 rifle
Twenty-five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
Two motorcycles

In a development highlighting the complexity of the crisis, one personnel of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) found operating alongside the armed militia was arrested. He is currently undergoing investigation and profiling to determine his level of involvement.

Commenting on the operation, the Commander, 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their swift response, bravery, and professionalism.

He reiterated the Brigade’s resolve to rid Taraba State of criminal elements and sustain ongoing operational momentum.
Brigadier General Uwa assured residents of Karim Lamido and the wider Taraba State community of the Brigade’s unwavering commitment to restoring lasting peace. He urged communities to embrace peaceful coexistence and continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information.

The Nigerian Army also called on residents to remain calm and law-abiding as stability returns to the area. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security formation as operations continue under Operation Peace Shield, Operation Lafiya Nakowa, and Operation Zafin Wuta.