SAA event in Nigeria on Mon 18th May 2026

Troops Neutralise Two Suspected Bandits, Recover Arms in Taraba Raid 

By: Zagazola Makama 

Troops of 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke, have neutralised two suspected bandits during a clearance operation in Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The operation, conducted around Dooshima District in Sarkin Kudu area of the local government, followed credible intelligence on the activities of armed criminal elements within the area.

Military sources said the troops swiftly mobilised for a tactical raid on May 18, 2026, and made contact with the suspected bandits at their hideout, resulting in a fierce gun battle.

According to the sources, two suspected bandits were neutralised during the exchange, while several others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.

Items recovered during the operation included one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, one locally fabricated pistol, one Android phone, three smaller mobile phones, two charm vests and other personal effects.

The military said the recovered items remained in custody pending further action and investigation.

The Commander of 6 Brigade and Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke, Brig.-Gen. Chukwuemeka Akaliro, commended the troops for their courage, professionalism and swift response during the operation.

Akaliro said the successful raid aligned with the directive of the Chief of Army Staff to intensify operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements and restoring lasting peace across Taraba State and neighbouring areas.

He assured that the Brigade’s reward and sanction system would be applied appropriately to personnel involved in the successful operation.

The commander also reiterated the Brigade’s commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against criminal groups and urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.