Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade/Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested five suspected armed criminals during a swift response operation in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba state.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, the operation was conducted on Thursday following a distress call reporting an attack by armed men on communities within the area.

The statement explained that troops deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Karim Lamido were immediately mobilised after receiving the alert.

“Acting on the information, troops of the FOB Karim Lamido swiftly moved to the scene,” the statement noted.

On arrival at the location, the soldiers reportedly came under fire from unidentified gunmen. The troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the attackers to disperse.

Following the exchange, the troops pursued the fleeing suspects and successfully apprehended five individuals during a follow-up operation.

Items recovered from the suspects included two motorcycles, daggers, machetes, assorted charms, gunpowder, and five mobile phones.

Reacting to the development, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, commended the troops for their professionalism, courage, and gallantry during the operation.

He reiterated the directive of the Chief of Army Staff, urging personnel to remain vigilant and sustain ongoing operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements and denying them freedom of action within the area of responsibility.

He also assured residents of Taraba state of the Brigade’s continued commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal networks and restoring lasting peace and security across the state.

Military authorities confirmed that operations in the area will continue as part of broader efforts to stabilize affected communities. (Guardian)