Troops Secure Farmers, Clear Bandits’ Hideouts in Takum.
By Christiana Babayo
Troops of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, under Operation ZAFIN WUTA, have intensified security operations in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State, successfully securing farmers and clearing suspected bandits’ hideouts in the general area.
According to the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations Lt Mohammed Umar, the operation, conducted on 12 December 2025, was aimed at ensuring the safety of farmers during the ongoing harvest season and maintaining a peaceful environment ahead of the Yuletide.
It followed concerns raised by residents of Chanchanji community over possible attacks by criminal elements while harvesting their farm produce.
In response to the fears expressed by the residents, the Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, had earlier visited the community and assured farmers of adequate security.
Reaffirming the Army’s commitment, the Commander stated that the Nigerian Army would not allow criminal elements to disrupt farming activities or threaten the livelihoods of law-abiding citizens, particularly during the critical harvest period.
During the operation, troops arrived in Chanchanji town and, working in collaboration with local hunters and vigilante groups, provided security cover for farmers moving to Demevaa Village, located about 19 kilometres away.
At the same time, troops carried out extensive patrols and clearance operations across several communities, including Sabe, Iyongaem, Yongu, Adigi, Kpenwe, Tse-Iorver and Tse-Tseve villages under Chanchanji Ward.
The coordinated operation successfully flushed out criminal elements from the affected areas, restoring public confidence and allowing farming activities to continue unhindered. Acting on credible intelligence, troops further advanced into the Zambana Forest, a suspected hideout of armed bandits operating in the area.
The forest and its adjoining environs were thoroughly combed and cleared, significantly degrading the capacity of the criminals to operate.
Brigadier General Uwa reassured the people of Takum Local Government Area and Taraba State at large that troops of 6 Brigade remain fully deployed and proactive in safeguarding lives, property and farmlands throughout the harvest season and beyond.
He also called on members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to sustain peace, stability and a safe festive period across the state.