The fight against arms trafficking in Taraba State has continued to yield positive results following a successful intelligence-led operation by troops of the 6 Brigade, Sector 3 of Operation WHIRL STROKE, which led to the arrest of suspected gunrunners and the recovery of arms and ammunition.

The Brigade disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday and made available to journalists by its Acting Spokesperson, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad. He said the operation was carried out in collaboration with operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).

According to the statement, the operation followed the earlier arrest of two suspected gunrunners, Mr Christopher Adamu and Mr James Yangyang, who were apprehended on January 11 and 12, 2026, at Sebos Joint in Mayo Dassa, Jalingo Local Government Area, and Tautre Village in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area, respectively.

“The arrests were the outcome of sustained surveillance and deliberate operational planning aimed at dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal proliferation of small arms,” the statement said.

The Brigade noted that the success of the operation was made possible through credible intelligence provided by public-spirited individuals.

Acting on further intelligence, troops of 6 Brigade, Sector 3, subsequently conducted a coordinated cordon-and-search operation at Murubai Village in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area. During the operation, one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and four rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the residence of a suspected arms trafficker, Mr. Bazoe John, who is currently at large.

The military described the operation as professionally executed, adding that it was carried out with precision and restraint and concluded without casualties or any untoward incidents.

According to the troops, efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and recover additional weapons, as part of measures to deny criminal elements freedom of action in the area.

Commending the troops for the successful operation, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, praised their courage, dedication, and professionalism. He said the success underscored the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s resolve to combat arms proliferation and other criminal activities in the state.

The commander urged the troops to sustain the momentum while maintaining high standards of discipline and respect for civil authority. He added that the operation reflects the Nigerian Army’s and Operation WHIRL STROKE’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property and to ensuring peace and stability in Taraba State and its environs.

He also called on members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance collective security efforts.