Army, DIA Operatives Arrest Suspected Gun Runners, Recover Weapons in Taraba
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade, Sector 3, Operation WHIRL STROKE, in collaboration with operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), have recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against arms trafficking in Taraba State, leading to the arrest of suspected gun runners and the recovery of weapons and ammunition.
The intelligence-led operation followed the earlier arrest of two suspects, identified as 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.
According to the Army, the arrests were the result of sustained surveillance and deliberate operational planning aimed at dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal proliferation of small arms within the brigade’s area of responsibility.
Building on the initial success, troops of 6 Brigade, Sector 3, acting on credible and actionable intelligence, carried out a cordon-and-search operation at Murubai Village in Ardo-Kola LGA. During the operation, one AK-47 rifle, a 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.
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The military said the operation was executed with precision and restraint, and concluded without any casualties or incidents, underscoring the professionalism and discipline of the troops involved. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and recover additional weapons as part of sustained measures to deny criminal elements freedom of action in the area.
Commending the troops and the DIA operatives, the Commander of 6 Brigade and Sector 3, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, described the success as a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the resolve of the Nigerian Army to combat arms proliferation and related criminal activities.
He urged the troops to sustain the operational momentum while maintaining the highest standards of discipline and respect for civil authority, assuring them of continued support from higher headquarters.
The Army reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Taraba State and surrounding areas, and called on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support security efforts, noting that collective vigilance remains key to sustaining peace and stability.
The statement was signed by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, and dated January 22, 2026.
By PRNigeria
