OPERATION PEACE SHIELD: TROOPS ARREST THREE ARSON SUSPECTS, FOIL FRESH UNREST IN TARABA LGA
By Christiana Babayo
Troops of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have arrested three suspects linked to an alleged arson attack in Karim Town, Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The early morning operation, carried out on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, averted what security officials say could have triggered fresh communal tensions in the area.
In a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, the suspects identified as Bitrus Ishaya and Mamman Ibrahim from Wudumpi, and Emmanuel Adi from the Step 2 area were apprehended at the scene shortly after a house belonging to a Wurkun resident was set ablaze.
Troops, who were deployed under Operation Peace Shield, responded swiftly after receiving intelligence on the unfolding incident.
The statement noted that preliminary investigations cast doubts on the suspects’ claims of belonging to recognised security outfits, as Bitrus and Mamman, who claimed to be members of the Taraba Marshal, could not produce any identification, while Emmanuel Adi, who alleged he was a vigilante operative, reportedly gave conflicting statements during interrogation.
Security sources believe the attack may have been an attempt to exploit simmering tensions within the Karim Lamido axis, where recent incidents have heightened fears of communal clashes. The prompt response of the troops, officials say, prevented the situation from escalating into a wider conflict.
The suspects are currently in military custody as investigations continue to establish their real identities, motives, and any links to criminal networks operating under the guise of community security organisations.
Commending the soldiers for their professionalism, Commander 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, reiterated the Army’s resolve to preserve peace and stability across Taraba State. He warned that individuals or groups attempting to provoke violence or disrupt communal harmony would face decisive action.
Brigadier General Uwa urged residents to stay calm and support ongoing security operations by reporting suspicious movements or activities, noting that community cooperation remains vital to the success of Operation Peace Shield.
