The 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, under Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, has arrested a 73-year-old suspected bandit informant, Alhaji Buba Maru, during a clearance operation in Bakin Dutse, Ardo-Kola Local Government Area of Taraba State. The operation aims to dismantle criminal hideouts and ensure safety during the harvest season and upcoming festive period.
The Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Captain Olubodunde Oni, disclosed the development on Tuesday in a statement released in Jalingo. The operation, led by Brigade Commander Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commenced on Sunday and targeted notorious bandit flashpoints in the Bakin Dutse Mountains and surrounding areas.
According to Oni, troops discovered several criminal hideouts and arrested Maru, who is accused of allocating land to bandits to facilitate their criminal activities. The operation also extended to other high-risk areas, including Kona and Lau Mountains, yielding significant results in neutralizing threats and clearing camps.
The statement read, “Troops discovered several hideouts and arrested Maru, accused of allocating land to bandits for their criminal activities. The operation extended to Kona and Lau Mountains and surrounding areas, yielding significant results in neutralizing threats.”
On Monday, the operation advanced to Yorro and Zing Local Government Areas, where additional camps were cleared. The suspect, Maru, is currently under investigation and will be handed over to a sister security agency for prosecution.
During the operation, the Brigade Commander and his team met with the Chairmen of the affected LGAs to explain the purpose of the operation. Brigadier General Uwa assured them of the Army’s commitment to safeguarding farmers and residents, enabling them to harvest crops and enjoy a peaceful festive season without fear.
The Local Government Chairmen lauded the Army for its proactive measures, noting that the operations have restored residents’ confidence and significantly improved security. “These efforts have allowed people to sleep peacefully and go about their daily activities without fear,” they remarked.
The operation underscores the Army’s resolve to eradicate banditry and restore peace in Taraba State.
