Army launches robust clearance operation to eradicate bandit camps in Taraba
By Jethro Yerga, Jalingo
The 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/ Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), has begun a robust clearance operation to dismantle criminal hideouts and ensure the safety of residents of the state, particularly during the ongoing farm harvests and the forthcoming yuletide season.
The robust operation, which commenced last Sunday in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area (LGA) of the state, is expected to focus on notorious flashpoints such as Bakin Dutse Mountains in Sunkani and other high grounds across the state
A Press Statement signed by the spokeman of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/ Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Captain Olubodunde Oni, who is the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, indicates that the operation had so far, led to dismantling of multiple bandit hideouts and the arrest of a suspected bandit informant and collaborator, identified as Alhaji Buba Maru, a 73 years old man in Bakin Dutse who specializes in allocating land to Bandits to carry out their nefarious activities.
He said the operation extended to Kona Mountains in Lau LGA and its surrounding areas leading to the achievement of significant results in neutralizing threats and restoring confidence in the locals.
The spokesman man said the operation continued into Yorro and Zing Local Government Areas, where more suspected bandit camps, high grounds, and flashpoints were cleared.
Reaffirming the Army’s unwavering commitment and determination to safeguard Taraba State from the activities of terrorists, bandits and kidnappers, the pokeman encouraged the general public to stay vigilant and cooperate with security forces to rid the state of all forms of criminality.
He stressed that the Command, under the leadership of Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, had during the operation, taken time to pay courtesy visits to Chairmen of the affected LGAs who serve as the Chief Security Officers of their domains.
“During these visit, the commander emphasized the essence of the robust operation, reiterating the Brigade’s dedication to ensuring that farmers harvesting their crops can do so in peace and that citizens can enjoy the festive season free from intimidation or harassment.
“He urged the LGA Chairmen to enhance community sensitization on security consciousness and maximize the use of local vigilantes and hunters under the strict supervision of security agencies and called on residents to continue providing actionable and credible intelligence to support the seamless execution of security operations”. He added.
Meanwhile, the LGA Chairmen, in their responses, had lauded the efforts of the Commander and his team for their proactive measures in ensuring peace and security in the state, noting that the operations of the Brigade have allowed residents to sleep with their eyes closed.
