Troops Crush Bandit Hideout in Taraba, Kill Two Gunmen in Fierce Gun Battle

|By Chinwendu Nwani and Comfort Awaji-ikanminsan

Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke have stormed a suspected bandits’ hideout in Taraba State, killing two armed suspects during a fierce clearance operation in Ibi Local Government Area.

The operation, carried out by troops deployed at Sarkin Kudu, followed credible intelligence on the activities of suspected bandits operating around the Dooshima District.

According to the Army, soldiers swiftly launched a tactical raid on May 18, 2026, targeting criminal elements accused of threatening peace and security in the area.

Military authorities disclosed that the troops came under heavy attack immediately they approached the hideout, triggering an intense gun duel between the soldiers and the suspected bandits.

During the exchange, two suspected bandits were gunned down, while several others reportedly fled the scene with gunshot wounds.

The Army said troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, a locally made pistol, one Android phone, three smaller mobile phones, two charm vests, and other personal belongings from the scene.

The recovered items are currently in military custody pending further investigation and necessary action by relevant authorities.

Commander of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, praised the troops for their bravery, professionalism and swift response during the operation.

He said the raid aligns with the directive of the Chief of Army Staff to intensify the crackdown on criminal groups and restore lasting peace across Taraba State and neighbouring communities.

The statement, signed by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, further assured that the brigade would continue sustained offensives against criminal networks while rewarding gallant soldiers involved in successful operations.

Residents were also urged to continue supplying credible and timely intelligence to security agencies.