Troops Arrest Suspected Gunrunner, Recover Weapons

Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army (NA) / Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested a suspected gunrunner and recovered several weapons during an intelligence-led operation in Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The operation, carried out on 12 February 2026, followed credible intelligence reports. Acting swiftly on the information, troops deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari intercepted and apprehended a 48-year-old suspect, identified as Mr. Abubakar Ibrahim, a native of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
A search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of the following items:

Six PKT machine guns
Two rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
₦170,000 in cash
One Peugeot 504 vehicle
One Q Seven mobile phone
Seven bottles and wraps of perfume
Two small containers of Vaseline

The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing further investigation.
Military authorities stated that the successful operation has dealt a significant blow to criminal elements seeking to proliferate illegal weapons in the state, reinforcing ongoing efforts to curb insecurity and enhance public safety.
The Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Micheal Akaliro, commended the troops for their vigilance, professionalism, and swift response. He urged them to sustain the operational momentum in line with the mandate of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
He also expressed appreciation to local residents for providing timely and credible intelligence that contributed to the success of the operation.
Reaffirming the Brigade’s commitment, the Commander called on members of the public to remain security conscious and continue supporting security agencies with actionable information.
“The Brigade remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property, and to restore lasting peace and stability across Taraba State,” he stated