By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have intercepted a suspected gunrunner and recovered weapons and other items during a swift intelligence-driven operation in Taraba State, in a move seen as a major boost to ongoing efforts to curb insecurity in the region.
The operation, carried out on February 12, 2026, in Ibi Local Government Area, was executed by troops of the Brigade under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke following credible intelligence on illegal arms movement.
According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, troops stationed at the Forward Operating Base in Wukari acted promptly on the intelligence, leading to the arrest of a 48-year-old suspect, Abubakar Ibrahim, a native of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
A comprehensive search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of six PKT machine guns, two rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and a cash sum of ₦170,000. Troops also recovered a Peugeot 504 vehicle, a mobile phone, seven bottles and wraps of perfume, and two small containers of Vaseline believed to be in the suspect’s possession at the time of arrest.
Military authorities confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody and undergoing further investigation to unravel the network behind the illegal arms supply.
The successful interception is considered a significant breakthrough, preventing the proliferation of illegal weapons and reinforcing ongoing security operations aimed at restoring peace and protecting lives and property in Taraba State.
Commander of the 6 Brigade and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Micheal Akaliro, commended the troops for their vigilance, professionalism, and swift response to actionable intelligence.
He urged the soldiers to maintain the momentum in their operations to effectively deliver on their mandate, while also expressing appreciation to local residents whose timely and credible information contributed to the success of the mission.
The Brigade Commander further called on members of the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with useful information, assuring that the military remains committed to restoring lasting peace and stability across the state.
