Troops of the Nigerian Army attached to 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have neutralised two suspected bandits during a clearance operation in Taraba State.
The operation was carried out at Sarkin Kudu in Ibi Local Government Area following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected bandits in the area.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Lt. Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, troops launched a tactical raid on a suspected bandits’ hideout around Dooshima District on May 18.
Muhammad said the troops encountered armed assailants upon arrival at the location, leading to a fierce gun battle.
He said two suspected bandits were neutralised during the exchange, while others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.
Items recovered during the operation included one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, one locally fabricated pistol, one Android phone, three mobile phones, two charm vests and other personal belongings.
The army spokesman said the recovered items were in military custody and would be handed over to appropriate authorities for further action.
Commenting on the operation, the Commander of 6 Brigade NA/Sector 3 OPWS, Brig.-Gen. Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, commended the troops for their courage and swift response.
Akaliro said the operation aligned with the directive of the Chief of Army Staff to intensify efforts aimed at flushing out criminal elements and restoring peace across the state.
He assured that the brigade would sustain aggressive operations against criminal activities and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
