DAILY COURIER – In a series of coordinated military operations under Operation Lafiyan Jamaa, troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, in collaboration with troops of Sector 2 Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), have successfully destroyed bandits' hideouts, neutralized multiple threats, and arrested high-profile gunrunners in Taraba and Plateau States.
The operations, aimed at eliminating banditry and criminal elements in the region, yielded significant results, with several bandits dislodged and critical resources recovered.
Decisive assault on bandit camps
On March 22, 2025, troops launched an offensive in Achalle, a border community between Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State and Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State. During the clearance operation, troops engaged bandits in combat, forcing them to flee and successfully recovering a motorcycle at the scene.
The operation continued to a major bandit stronghold, a camp consisting of over 70 huts, where troops met fierce resistance. However, superior firepower forced the criminals to abandon the camp. A second motorcycle was recovered, along with an international passport belonging to one Muhammadu Dahiru, who is suspected to be linked to the criminal network. The entire camp was destroyed and set ablaze.
Further extending their offensive, troops cleared the Dutsen Zaki high ground, neutralizing multiple threats and reinforcing their control over the area.
Crackdown on gunrunners
In a related development, on March 16, 2025, following credible intelligence, troops raided the residence of two notorious gunrunners, identified as Irimiya Aboki and Tanko Adamu (aka Arewa Mafia), in Mararraba Donga, Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State. Though the suspects evaded arrest, a search of their home led to the recovery of four pistols, one pump-action rifle, and six cartridges.
Additionally, on March 20, 2025, troops successfully ambushed and arrested a suspected arms trafficker, Alhaji Mansur Mohammad, in Donga LGA, in possession of ₦1.2 million meant for illegal arms procurement. Preliminary investigations revealed that the funds were traced back to sponsors in Bauchi State.
On the same day, a high-profile bandit leader, Adamu Yakubu (aka No Money No Guy), was arrested. Intelligence reports linked him to kidnappings, banditry, and violent crimes across Katsina-Ala LGA of Benue State and Southern Taraba. Yakubu and six of his associates were allegedly responsible for the March 10, 2025 attack on Tse-Shiikaa village, where two people were killed, one suffered life-threatening injuries, and others escaped with severe wounds.
Military assures continued operations
Commending the troops, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS, lauded their professionalism and dedication. He reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to eradicating banditry and restoring peace in the region.
General Uwa also urged the public to remain vigilant and provide credible intelligence to security agencies to help in the fight against criminal elements.
The recent operations mark another milestone in the military’s efforts to secure Taraba, Plateau, and Benue States, bringing renewed hope to communities plagued by violent crimes.
