Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
In its effort to ensure a safe and secure environment for the ongoing farm harvest season and the forthcoming yuletide and to ensure that the state does not become a Safe Haven for criminals, the gallant troops of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), under the leadership of Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, have successfully conducted a series of clearance operations across multiple bandit hideouts in Taraba State.
This is contained in a statement by the Acting Assistant Director, 6 Brigade Public Relations , Captain Olubodunde Oni, issue to newsmen in Jalingo.
The statement reads in parts,
“The operation code named OP GOLDEN PEACE commenced after extensive confidence building patrols, clearance missions, and stakeholder engagements, which proved effective in the northern part of the state. The latest phase of the operation began on 28 November 2024 in Takum Local Government Area (LGA), focusing on known bandit and terrorist hideouts around Lijem High Ground.
“Troops cleared these areas and extended their presence along the power line near Vingiri and Vingir villages, reassuring and boosting the confidence of local residents.
“Further operations on 29 and 30 November 2024 targeted Kufai Ahmadu, Jam, Hingir, Ukum, and Nbaume villages. In the notorious terrorist camps of New Gboko and Che Adekpe, linked to the wanted criminal Liamdoo Douglas Adekpe, AKA Boujogh, troops came in contact engaged the bandits in a fierce firefight, overwhelming them with superior firepower and forcing their retreat in disarray.
It said that during the exploitation phase, several bandit camps were destroyed, and troops recovered 27 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 1 AK 47 Magazine, 1 handheld Baofeng radio and 2 motorcycles.
“To further solidify the safety of residents, troops projected force 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.
The Commander 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of local communities and encouraged them to remain vigilant while continuing to provide timely information to security agencies.
“Together, we will ensure peace and security across Taraba State and beyond,” General Uwa assured – the statement concluded.