By Harriet Tornguvan
Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have arrested two suspected gunrunners and recovered 444 rounds of ammunition during a routine operation in Taraba State.
The suspects were apprehended by troops deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Wukari during a stop-and-search exercise along the Wukari–Ikyaior Road in Wukari Local Government Area.
In a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, the operation was carried out on March 19, 2026. He disclosed that the suspects were intercepted while riding a motorcycle.
The suspects were identified as Wisdom Soomga, 32, from Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, and Elisha Danladi, 38, a native of Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.
According to the statement, a thorough search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of 444 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. Other items recovered include ₦29,200 in cash, two mobile phones, ATM cards, charms, and personal belongings, as well as the motorcycle used in conveying the items.
The Army spokesperson noted that the suspects and the recovered exhibits are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation to determine the source and intended destination of the ammunition.
Reacting to the development, the Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, commended the troops for their vigilance and swift response, describing the arrest as a significant step in ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities in the state.
He urged the troops to sustain the operational tempo in line with the directive of the Chief of Army Staff to decisively eliminate criminal elements and enhance security across Taraba State.
Akaliro also reassured residents of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property, while calling on members of the public to support security agencies with timely and credible information on suspicious activities.
He further emphasized the Brigade’s commitment to maintaining a robust reward and disciplinary system, noting that personnel who exhibit professionalism, dedication, and courage in the line of duty would continue to be recognised and rewarded.
