*Recover weapons in intelligence-led operation in Taraba

Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have apprehended a suspected gunrunner and recovered a cache of weapons during an intelligence-led operation in Taraba State.

The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday. He said the suspect was arrested on February 12, 2026, in Ibi Local Government Area following credible intelligence received by the troops.

According to the statement, personnel deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari acted swiftly on the intelligence, leading to the arrest of a 48-year-old suspect, identified as Abubakar Ibrahim, a native of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

A thorough 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. Other items recovered included a Peugeot 504 vehicle, a Q Seven mobile phone, seven bottles and wraps of perfume, as well as two small containers of Vaseline.

The suspect is currently in military custody and undergoing further investigation.

Lieutenant Muhammad noted that the successful operation denied criminal elements the opportunity to circulate illegal weapons within the state, thereby strengthening ongoing efforts to curb insecurity and enhance public safety.

The Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Micheal Akaliro, commended the troops for their vigilance, professionalism, and swift response. He urged them to sustain the operational momentum in order to achieve the mandate assigned by the Chief of Army Staff.

He also appreciated members of the public for their cooperation and the timely intelligence that contributed to the success of the operation.

The commander further called on residents to remain security conscious and continue providing actionable information to security agencies.

“The Brigade remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property, and to restore lasting peace and stability across Taraba State,” he said.