Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 3 of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), have successfully neutralized a suspected bandit and recovered an AK-47 rifle during a clearance operation in Karim Lamido local government area of Taraba State.

According to a statement released on Wednesday by the Brigade Acting spokesperson, Captain Oni Olubodunde, the operation followed a strategic visit by the Commander of 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, to the Bandawa community, where he emphasized the need for enhanced military presence to secure the area.

"Acting promptly on the Commander's directive, troops on a fighting patrol along the Bandawa, Karim Lamido road encountered armed criminals. In a swift and decisive exchange of fire, the soldiers neutralized one bandit and recovered an AK-47 rifle along with 39 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition," the spokesperson stated.

The operation underscores the Brigade's commitment to ridding Taraba State of criminal elements and restoring lasting peace to the region.

Peace Meeting Addresses Community Tensions

In a related development, a peace meeting was convened on May 12, 2025, to address growing tensions between communities in Kashimbila, Takum local government area of Taraba State, and Jato Aka in Kwande local government area of Benue State. The meeting aimed to resolve incessant clashes that have resulted in attacks on motorists along the Kashimbila–Jato Aka road.

The leadership of the 6 Brigade has urged citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing military and peacekeeping efforts throughout Taraba State.

This successful operation comes as part of broader efforts by Nigerian security forces to combat banditry and restore security in the North-Central region of the country.