The Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade, operating under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), has apprehended a 73-year-old man, Alhaji Buba Maru, suspected of collaborating with bandits in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area of Taraba State.  

According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Captain Olubodunde Oni, released on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, Maru is accused of allocating land to bandits for their operations. The arrest was part of a large-scale clearance operation targeting criminal hideouts in the region.  

The operation, initiated on Sunday, November 17, 2024, was described as a proactive measure to ensure security during the ongoing harvest season and ahead of the festive period. Troops began in the Ardo-Kola LGA, focusing on key flashpoints like the Bakin Dutse Mountains in Sunkani and other elevated terrains. The offensive resulted in the dismantling of multiple bandit hideouts and the arrest of Maru.  

The operation later expanded to the Kona Mountains in Lau LGA, and subsequently into Yorro and Zing LGAs, where additional suspected bandit camps and high-risk areas were neutralized.  

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, paid courtesy visits to local government chairmen in the affected areas. He stressed the importance of community collaboration and security awareness and assured residents of the Army’s commitment to enabling a safe environment for farmers and ensuring a peaceful festive season.  

General Uwa urged local authorities to enhance security through the integration of vigilantes and hunters, operating under the guidance of security agencies. He also called on residents to provide actionable intelligence to aid security efforts.  

The LGA chairmen commended the Brigade’s proactive approach, highlighting the positive impact on the safety of their communities.  

The 6 Brigade reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding Taraba State, encouraging residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to eliminate criminal threats.