By Nkechi Eze
In a determined effort to stamp out criminal elements threatening peace in Taraba State, troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have conducted a robust two-day clearance operation across Wukari and Takum Local Government Areas, successfully dismantling known bandit camps and uncovering disturbing evidence of illicit activities.
The operation, which took place between 19 and 20 June 2025, was led by the Commander 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, and involved personnel from the newly established Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Wukari. The troops moved decisively through critical flashpoints in southern Taraba, targeting areas identified as safe havens for criminal gangs.
According to a statement released by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Captain Olubodunde Oni, the troops swept through the High Tension route via Chonku to Gor Road on 19 June, combing key villages such as Lortema, Gudu, Mbayenge, and Teyotima in Wukari LGA. The operation focused on river lines, high grounds, and suspected terrorist enclaves.
At Teyotima, intelligence reports pointed to the presence of the mother of a notorious criminal, known as ANGBA, alias “YELLOW.” Although no suspects or weapons were found during a thorough cordon-and-search, the village remains under observation for further developments.
Operations extended to Ikayior village, home of another wanted criminal, AKIKI UTIV, also known as “FULL FIRE.” There, troops uncovered a bandit camp and recovered 14 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition loaded into an AK-47 magazine. The camp was demolished to prevent its reoccupation by criminal groups.
On 20 June, the troops advanced to Chanchangi, Jam Kaanan, Hingir, Ukum, and Nbaume in Takum LGA. While most areas were cleared without enemy engagement, at Mande Atsager, believed to be the hideout of bandit leader VERIOR JOHN GATA, troops encountered hostile fire. The criminals were forced to flee under heavy pressure from the military, abandoning their stronghold.
During the subsequent search of the site, troops discovered a disturbing structure containing four built-in detention cells, suspected to have been used to hold kidnapped victims awaiting ransom. Additionally, a shrine housing a human skull was uncovered, indicating possible ritual practices linked to the group’s criminal operations. The camp was cleared and destroyed.
Commending the troops for their courage and professionalism, Brigadier General Uwa reaffirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to rooting out armed threats from the region. He praised local communities for their cooperation and urged residents to remain alert and to report any suspicious activity to security agencies without delay.
