By Sani Wakili
In a determined effort to create a safe and secure environment for the ongoing farm harvest season and the upcoming holiday period, the troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have conducted a series of successful clearance operations in Taraba State.
The troops under the leadership of Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, targeted bandit hideouts and destroyed, as well as recovered ammunitions.
Captain Olubodude Oni, the Acting Assistant Director of 6 Brigade Army Public Relations, disclosed this in a press release issued to newsmen on 30 November 2024.
The operation, code-named OP GOLDEN PEACE, commenced following extensive confidence-building patrols, clearance missions, and stakeholder engagements, which proved effective in the northern part of the state.
It says the latest phase of the operation began on 28 November 2024 in the Takum Local Government Area (LGA), focusing on known bandits and terrorist hideouts around Lijem High Ground.
According to the statement, troops cleared these areas and expanded their presence along the power line near Vingiri and Vingir villages, reassuring and boosting the confidence of residents.
Further operations on 29 and 30 November 2024 targeted the villages of Kufai Ahmadu, Jam, Hingir, Ukum, and Nbaume. In the notorious terrorist camps of New Gboko and Che Adekpe, linked to the wanted criminal Liamdoo Douglas Adekpe, also known as Boujogh, troops encountered and engaged the bandits in a fierce firefight, overwhelming them with superior firepower and forcing their retreat in disarray.
“During the follow-up phase of the operation, several bandit camps were destroyed, and troops recovered 27 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one AK-47 magazine, one handheld Baofeng radio, and two motorcycles.
“To further ensure the safety of residents, troops extended their presence into the Akume and Ananum areas of Donga LGA on 30 November 2024, reinforcing the Brigade’s commitment to securing lives and property throughout Taraba State.
“Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of local communities and encouraged them to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to security agencies.
“Together, we will ensure peace and security across Taraba State and beyond,” assured General Uwa.” The statement concluded.