Troops Smash Major Gunrunning Network, Recover AK-47, Ammunition In Taraba

Troops of the 6 Brigade, Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke, have recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against arms trafficking in Taraba State following a series of intelligence-led operations that led to arrests and the recovery of weapons.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the operations were carried out in collaboration with operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency.

Lit. Muhammad disclosed that two suspected gun runners, identified as Mr. Christopher Adamu and Mr. James Yangyang, were first arrested at Sebos Joint in Mayo Dassa, Jalingo local government area, and Tautre Village in Ardo-Kola local government area of the State on January 11 and 12, 2026, respectively. The arrests, he said, followed sustained surveillance and “deliberate operational planning aimed at dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal proliferation of small arms within the Area of Responsibility.”

Building on these successes, troops launched a cordon and search operation at Murubai Village in Ardo-Kola LGA, acting on what the Army described as “credible and actionable intelligence.” During the raid, soldiers recovered one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and four rounds of live ammunition from the residence of Mr. Bazoe John, a suspected arms trafficker who is currently on the run.

“The operation was executed with precision, restraint, and respect for civil authority, and was concluded successfully without casualty or incident,” the statement read. “This reflects the high level of discipline, professionalism, and operational competence of the troops.”

He said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and recover additional weapons as part of continued efforts to deny criminal elements freedom of action in the region.

Commander of 6 Brigade and Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their performance, describing the operation as a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-driven missions.

He praised the soldiers’ “courage, dedication, and professionalism,” noting that their success “underscores the resolve of the Nigerian Army to decisively tackle arms proliferation and other criminal activities” across Taraba State. The Commander further urged the troops to “sustain the momentum while maintaining the highest standards of discipline and respect for civil authority,” assuring them of continuous support from higher headquarters.

The Army reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, as well as ensuring lasting peace and stability in Taraba State and its environs.

The public was also encouraged to support security agencies by providing “timely and credible information,” which the Army said remains vital to sustaining peace and security.