…DISLODGES TERRORISTS
Troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have continued to consolidate on recent operational successes as part of ongoing efforts to rid Southern Taraba of criminal elements threatening peace, security, and agricultural livelihoods.
The clearance operations carried out between 24th and 25th November 2025, across Akesha, Zambana Forest, and Ayu Village in Takum and Donga Local Government Areas, was targeted at suspected armed herdsmen and other criminal groups responsible for persistent attacks, destruction of farmlands, and displacement of residents.
It was learnt that acting on credible intelligence, troops advanced on identified hideouts, compelling the criminals to flee upon sighting the advancing forces.
During the sweep of Akesa village on 24th November, troops recovered 91 rustled cattle abandoned by the fleeing suspects while grazing on farmlands.
The livestock were secured to prevent further destruction and to sever their use in supporting criminal activities.
Similarly, on 25th November, troops made contact with terrorists within Zambana Forest and Ayu Village.
They engaged the criminals with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon their positions and withdraw deeper into the adjoining forest. The successful assault further degraded the terrorists’ operational capacity.
The clearance operations also enabled displaced farmers to safely evacuate their harvested crops an activity previously hindered by fear of attacks from criminal elements terrorizing the communities.
Addressing troops and residents after the operations, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, reaffirmed the Brigade’s resolve to sustain aggressive kinetic actions across Southern Taraba.
He stated that the ongoing momentum will be maintained to ensure domination of the battlespace, particularly as the yuletide season approaches.
Regarding the recovered cattle, Brigadier General Uwa directed all persons claiming ownership to report to 93 Battalion in Takum for identification.
He emphasized that no cattle will be released unless rightful owners compensate affected farmers whose farmlands were destroyed.
The Commander condemned the persistent violence associated with marauding herders and identified their activities as a major driver of insecurity in Takum and environs.
He further warned herders migrating into Taraba from neighboring states to report to traditional rulers and local authorities before settling in any community, stressing that this procedure is essential for preventing conflict and preserving peace.
He reiterated that Operation Zafin Wuta remains focused on flushing out criminal networks, securing farming communities, restoring law and order, and ensuring livestock activities do not undermine peace and food security in Southern Taraba.
The Nigerian Army urges citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to enhance ongoing security operations and remains steadfast in its mandate to protect lives, secure property, and uphold peace and stability for all law-abiding citizens.
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