In a significant operation aimed at curbing the escalating criminal activities in Taraba State, troops from the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in conjunction with Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, successfully apprehended two suspected kidnappers in the Karim Lamido Local Government Area on September 16, 2024. The operation, which was carried out with precision, also led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and a substantial cache of ammunition, marking yet another win in the ongoing fight against criminal syndicates terrorizing the region.
The Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Brigade, Captain Olubodunde Oni, revealed details of the operation in a press statement. According to Captain Oni, the success of the operation was the result of actionable intelligence gathered by the troops over time. This intelligence led the soldiers to target a notorious criminal syndicate that had been on the military’s radar for its involvement in a range of violent crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and illegal arms trafficking.
The statement highlighted that one of the key suspects apprehended during the operation, identified as Ali Tambaya of Wanzani village, is believed to be a prominent figure within the criminal group. Tambaya was found in possession of an AK-47 rifle along with 42 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, underscoring the level of sophistication and firepower available to the syndicate. His capture is considered a major breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to dismantle the group and bring its members to justice.
During the preliminary investigation following his arrest, Tambaya made some startling confessions. He admitted to acquiring the AK-47 rifle from one Alhaji Dandi, a well-known figure in the illegal arms trade, for the sum of N500,000 about five years ago. He further revealed that he had been purchasing ammunition at a cost of N1,000 per round, and that 38 of the 42 rounds in his possession had been entrusted to him by another associate of the syndicate, identified as Alhaji Kiwo, for safekeeping. This confession has provided crucial insights into the inner workings of the syndicate and has spurred the military to intensify its efforts to apprehend all those involved.
Upon receiving Tambaya’s confession, troops immediately launched a follow-up operation to capture the other members of the criminal network. Their swift action led to the successful apprehension of Alhaji Dandi, the alleged arms dealer. Meanwhile, efforts are still underway to track down and arrest Alhaji Kiwo, who is believed to play a significant role in supplying ammunition to the group.
This operation is just one of many being conducted under the broader umbrella of Operation Whirl Stroke, a multi-agency effort aimed at combating armed banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crime across the Middle Belt region. The region has been plagued by insecurity, with criminal syndicates often operating with impunity due to the difficult terrain and the availability of illegal arms. However, with the Nigerian Army’s intensified focus on intelligence-driven operations, these criminal elements are finding it increasingly difficult to evade capture.
The success of this operation has been met with commendation from the leadership of the 6 Brigade, who praised the troops for their professionalism and dedication. In the statement, the Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating criminal elements from Taraba State and ensuring peace and stability for all its residents. Captain Oni noted that while the military’s efforts have been fruitful so far, the continued cooperation between the military and the civilian population remains crucial to achieving long-term security in the region.
“We urge members of the public to continue to provide timely and accurate information to security forces. The cooperation between the military and the civilian population remains vital to achieving lasting peace,” the statement read. The military’s call for collaboration highlights the importance of community involvement in the fight against crime. Many of the successes in recent months have been made possible through tips from local residents who are increasingly trusting the military to act decisively and swiftly against criminal elements.
The government of Taraba State, as well as local leaders, have also expressed their support for the military’s efforts. They have encouraged citizens to remain vigilant and to continue working hand in hand with security forces. In recent months, the rise in kidnappings and armed robberies had caused widespread fear and uncertainty among residents, particularly in rural areas where these syndicates often operate. However, with sustained pressure from security forces, there is hope that the tide is turning.
Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has repeatedly lauded the efforts of Operation Whirl Stroke in bringing a semblance of normalcy back to parts of the state. His administration has also been working closely with security agencies to bolster their efforts by providing logistical support and ensuring that intelligence sharing is seamless. Governor Kefas has emphasized that security is a top priority for his administration, and he is committed to seeing that every inch of the state is safe for its residents.
The ongoing operations in Taraba and neighboring states are part of a broader nationwide effort by the Nigerian military and other security agencies to clamp down on the proliferation of illegal arms and neutralize criminal syndicates. While there is still much work to be done, the recent successes are a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and the resolve of the Nigerian military to restore peace and stability across the country.
As the military continues to make progress, the focus remains on sustaining the momentum and ensuring that criminal elements do not regain a foothold in the region. The capture of key figures like Ali Tambaya and Alhaji Dandi, along with the ongoing efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate, sends a clear message that the days of operating with impunity are over. The Nigerian Army and its partners in Operation Whirl Stroke are determined to see this fight through to the end, ensuring that Taraba State and the entire Middle Belt region can finally enjoy the peace and security that its residents deserve.
In conclusion, the recent operation in Karim Lamido Local Government Area marks a significant victory for the Nigerian Army and a critical step towards dismantling the criminal networks operating in Taraba State. The collaboration between the military and local communities continues to be a vital component in the fight against crime, and with each successful operation, the region moves closer to lasting peace. The Nigerian military remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians, and as long as this dedication continues, there is hope for a safer and more secure future for the people of Taraba and beyond.
