Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have successfully dismantled a notorious bandit camp in Angwan Bala, Kambari, within the Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The Brigade’s Acting Spokesperson, Captain Oni Olubodunde, in a statement, said the operation was executed following credible intelligence on the movement of suspected bandits in the area.

“Upon reaching the camp, the troops came under fire but swiftly responded, neutralizing one bandit. In a surprising turn, 23 others, comprising 19 men and 4 women, surrendered without resistance.”

He explained that a thorough search of the hideout led to the recovery of a significant cache of weapons and equipment, including four AK-47 rifles, five AK-47 magazines, 80 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, an English-made pistol, two locally made guns, 28 cutlasses, 48 daggers, and jackknives, and 16 motorcycles.

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Olubodunde revealed that the bandits, originally from Plateau State, allegedly paid ₦1,500,000 to a local chief in Amar village to establish their camp in the region.

Reacting to the operation, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in Taraba State.

“This operation underscores our unwavering resolve to eliminate criminal elements and prevent Taraba from becoming a haven for terrorists. We will continue working closely with relevant stakeholders to sustain the fight against insecurity,” Uwa stated.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies, emphasizing the critical role of community support in combating crime.

Uwa said the operation marks another significant achievement in the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to curb banditry and enhance security in the Taraba, and the country at large.