Troops Neutralise Bandit, Recover Arms In Taraba

Troops of Operation Lafiyan Jamaa of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have neutralised a suspected bandit in a military operation aimed at restoring peace to Karim-Lamido local government area of Taraba State.

The operation followed the recent killing of 57 villagers in Munga Community in Karim-Lamido LGA.

The troops, on Monday 26th May 2025, neutralised the bandit and recovered arms and motorcycles from the operation.

Army Assistant Director Public Relations, Captain Olubodunde Oni, in a statement made available for LEADERSHIP on Tuesday, said during a fighting patrol in Kwanchi Village, troops made contact with armed bandits and immediately engaged them in a hot pursuit.

“In the course of this pursuit, one of the troops’ motorcycles developed a fault and was temporarily secured in the village to enable the operation to continue.

“Upon return, it was discovered that the motorcycle was missing. This prompted an immediate raid operation by the troops to recover the item.

“During the search, troops encountered three policemen accompanied by a civilian identified as Alhaji Munga, who was questioned at the scene. Further interaction led to a call being placed to Alhaji Lamido, who was alleged to be in possession of the missing motorcycle.

“Alhaji Lamido, during questioning, stated that he was in Mutum Biyu, while the motorcycle had been taken to Kudeh Village, near a riverbank. Troops swiftly mobilised to the area.

“As they approached the location, they came under sudden gunfire from the armed bandits. The troops immediately returned fire and engaged the criminals in a fierce encounter. The bandits fled in disarray, abandoning their position.”

During the operation, he added that troops successfully neutralised one bandit and recovered one Dane gun, one locally fabricated pistol and four (4) motorcycles.

“Alhaji Munga is currently in military custody and continues to assist with investigations and intelligence gatherings,” the statement said.

Commenting on the success of the operation, the Commander 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa commended the troops for their swift action, discipline, and commitment.