Nigerian troops of the 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation WHIRL STROKE, in collaboration with other security agencies, have arrested notorious criminals, including kidnappers, gunrunners, and suspected terrorists, during a series of operations across Taraba State.
Zagazola Makama, a security analyst familiar with the trends in Northern Nigeria reported that on August 18, 2024, troops conducted a raid in Takum LGA, capturing David Musa, a suspected kidnapper linked to a notorious syndicate led by Ephraim, known as “Skin the Body.”
Just two days later, on August 20, troops arrested suspected gunrunners James Nuhu and Dan-Asabe Ango in Wukari LGA.
According to him, their confessions led to the recovery of a large quantity of 7.62mm ammunition and various weapons from the residence of their alleged armourer, Ibrahim Philemon.
Makam noted that the same day, troops intercepted seven suspected terrorists along the Chikai–Bantaji Market Road in the area. The suspects were allegedly involved in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and attacks on civilians.
Additionally, a terrorist kingpin and arms trafficker, Isyaka Yusuf, was apprehended at Bantaji Market, while Muhammad Usman and Abdulqadir Sule were arrested on the Wukari–Ibi Road with 13 mobile phones, three motorcycles, and 347,150 nairas in cash.
“On August 21, 2024, troops captured Mela Selim, a Tiv militia leader suspected of masterminding the July 19 murder of the Chief of Chanchangi in Takum LGA. Two other militia members, Fidelis Nyitar and Isaiah Ioraa, were arrested on the Takum–Katsina Ala Road, allegedly transporting supplies to militia cells,” he said.
In another engagement, troops and local vigilantes repelled a terrorist ambush in Ussa LGA, recovering an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, a locally fabricated gun, and two motorcycles.
The 6 Brigade commander commended local communities for their crucial intelligence support and urged continued cooperation to sustain peace and security in Taraba State.
