Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, have raided a suspected terrorist hideout and arrested five persons believed to be associates of a notorious bandit operating around Peva in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The operation was conducted in the early hours of Thursday, September 3, 2026, following credible intelligence received by the troops at about 12:30am on the location of the suspected bandit’s hideout.
Acting on the information, troops of Sector 1, in conjunction with troops of Sector 3, both under Operation WHIRL STROKE, launched a precision raid on the identified location.
However, the suspected terrorists were reportedly alerted to the advancing troops by informants and fled the area before the arrival of the security personnel.
Undeterred, the troops conducted a thorough search of the area, leading to the arrest of five persons suspected to be associates of the fleeing bandit.
Items recovered during the operation included two AK-47 rifle magazines, 46 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, one woodland camouflage jacket and jungle hat, four charm vests and assorted charms.
The task force said the arrests and recovery of the weapons-related items had provided useful leads that could assist ongoing efforts to identify and apprehend other members of the criminal gang.
The development was contained in a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu.
The force assured residents of Taraba State and other parts of its Joint Operations Area of its determination to sustain pressure on terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.
“OPWS reassures residents of Taraba State and other parts of the Joint Operations Area of its unwavering determination to maintain pressure on terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements until peace and security are fully restored,” the statement said.
The task force also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with timely and credible information on suspicious activities.
“Collective vigilance and cooperation remain critical to defeating criminal elements and securing communities,” it added.
