12 hours ago
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Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade have neutralised four suspected militia members and recovered a cache of weapons during an operation in Usmanu Village, Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The operation followed renewed communal clashes reportedly linked to a long-standing land dispute between the Shomo and Wurkun communities.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lt. Umar Muhammad, the troops were deployed after receiving credible intelligence indicating a resurgence of hostilities in the area.
“Upon arrival, the soldiers came under attack from armed assailants operating from the Fadama axis. A brief gunfight ensued, resulting in the deaths of four militia members,” the statement read.
A subsequent sweep of the area, was also confirmed to have led to the recovery of three dane guns, a fabricated AK-47 rifle, 25 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and two motorcycles.
In a notable development, the army also confirmed the arrest of a serving police officer allegedly found operating alongside the armed group. The officer is said to be undergoing investigation to determine his involvement in the clashes.
Commander of 6 Brigade and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, praised the troops for their swift and professional response.
He reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to restoring peace in Taraba State and sustaining pressure on criminal elements.
General Uwa urged residents of Karim-Lamido and neighbouring communities to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and provide credible information to aid ongoing operations. He added that security efforts under Operation Peace Shield, Operation Lafiya Nakowa and Operation Zafin Wuta would continue until full stability is restored.
