Troops of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army operating under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested a suspected gunrunner and recovered weapons and other items during an intelligence-led operation in Taraba State.
The operation, carried out on February 12, 2026, in Ibi Local Government Area, followed credible intelligence reports which prompted troops deployed at the Forward Operating Base in Wukari to launch a swift response.
According to military authorities, the troops apprehended a 48-year-old suspect, identified as Abubakar Ibrahim, a native of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
A search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of six PKT machine guns, two rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a Peugeot 504 vehicle, a mobile phone, and a cash sum of ₦170,000. Other items recovered include bottles and wraps of perfume as well as small containers of petroleum jelly.
The suspect is currently in military custody and undergoing further investigation.
Military officials stated that the successful interception prevented the circulation of illegal weapons in the state and strengthened ongoing efforts to combat insecurity and enhance public safety.
The Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Micheal Akaliro, commended the troops for their vigilance, professionalism, and swift execution of the mission. He urged personnel to sustain operational momentum in line with the mandate of the Chief of Army Staff.
He also appreciated residents for providing timely and credible intelligence that aided the success of the operation, calling on members of the public to remain security conscious and continue supporting security agencies with useful information.
The Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property while working to restore lasting peace and stability across Taraba State.
