Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have recovered a cache of assault rifles, ammunition and grenades in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State, in a raid the military said delivered a major blow against criminal networks operating in the Benue–Taraba axis.
In a statement posted by the Acting Media Information Officer HQ JTF Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, via the Nigerian Army’s X handle on Sunday, the operation was launched after actionable intelligence indicated the movement of an associate of notorious criminal kingpin John Ngata. Zubairu said acting swiftly, OPWS troops set up a snap roadblock at Zaki-Biam, where they intercepted the suspect without incident, adding that during preliminary questioning, the suspect voluntarily led troops to a concealed armoury at Amadu Village.
“Subsequent exploitation of the location resulted in the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition, comprising thirteen AK-47 rifles, thirty-nine AK-47 magazines, six hundred and ninety rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and quantity four hand grenades.
“Following the successful recovery, the armoury was professionally destroyed to prevent further use, and the troops safely withdrew to base,” the statement read.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism, swift response, and effective utilisation of intelligence, which culminated in the disruption of a criminal supply chain and the recovery of lethal weapons.
Mr Gara also assured residents of the Joint Operations Area that the task force would continue to prioritise troop welfare, logistics support and operational readiness, while urging the public to sustain the flow of credible intelligence.
He pledged confidentiality and prompt response to information provided by residents.
The latest operation comes against the backdrop of persistent insecurity along the Benue–Taraba border, where armed groups have exploited rural communities and key transit routes.
The Force Commander also expressed his appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff for his strategic guidance and the Service Chiefs for their sustained support to OPWS.