Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified their offensive against banditry in Taraba State, achieving significant operational successes, including the destruction of major bandit hideouts, the elimination of armed elements, and the arrest of a key suspect.
The coordinated operations were carried out today, Thursday, 04 December 2025, and earlier in the week, demonstrating the military’s renewed commitment to dismantling criminal networks in the state.
The latest offensive, codenamed Operation Zafin Wuta, targeted two distinct flashpoints.
Acting on credible intelligence, troops launched a deliberate clearance mission on 02 December 2025, targeting Shiid, Agia, and Tyozua communities in Takum Local Government Area, which contained mountainous hideouts previously considered inaccessible.
As soldiers advanced, the bandits fled deeper into the rugged terrain, abandoning their fortified camps. The troops subsequently searched, cleared, and destroyed the hideouts.
In Tyozua, fleeing bandits attempted to obstruct troop movement by setting fire to a wooden bridge, but the soldiers pressed forward, driving the criminals across the power line and into neighbouring Benue State.
During the follow-up operation, one key suspect, identified as Dahiru Maigari, was arrested and is currently undergoing preliminary investigation.
Furthermore, on 04 December 2025, troops conducting a fighting patrol around Karim Lamido to disrupt bandit regrouping came under fire near Usmanu, around Wudompi Community, however, the soldiers responded swiftly, repelling the attack and successfully neutralizing two of the armed assailants.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and 21 rounds of ammunition. No casualties were reported among the troops. The attackers are believed to be members of the Karimjo faction.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, commended the professionalism and gallantry of the troops, assuring residents that the Army remains committed to pursuing criminals wherever they flee until peace is fully restored across Taraba State.
