In a significant security operation, troops from the 6 Brigade/Sector 3 of Operation WHIRL STROKE, in collaboration with other security agencies, have arrested multiple crime kingpins and terrorists. These arrests include individuals linked to the brutal killing of a traditional ruler and his son in Taraba State, according to a statement released by the Nigerian Army on Friday.
The statement, issued by Captain Olubodunde Oni, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Brigade, detailed the successful operations conducted across various local government areas in Taraba State. Among the key figures arrested was Mela Selim, a Tiv militia leader believed to have orchestrated the murder of the Chief of Chanchangi and his son at Jankindo village in Takum Local Government Area (LGA).
The operations began on August 18, 2024, when troops, acting on credible intelligence, raided a hideout in Takum LGA. This raid led to the capture of David Musa, a suspected kidnapper. Preliminary investigations revealed Musa’s connection to a notorious kidnapping ring led by a kingpin known as Ephraim, alias āSkin the Bodyā. Musa is currently undergoing further interrogation to expose more details about the criminal network.
In another operation on August 20, 2024, troops apprehended two suspected gunrunners, James Nuhu and Dan-Asabe Ango, in Wukari LGA. During questioning, the suspects admitted their involvement in various criminal activities within Wukari and its surrounding areas. They identified Ibrahim Philemon as the group’s armourer, responsible for storing weapons and managing the proceeds from their criminal endeavors. Following this lead, a swift follow-up operation at Philemon’s residence uncovered a safe containing a large cache of 7.62mm ammunition and other assorted weapons.
The crackdown continued with a covert operation targeting members of the Konyo-led Tiv militias on the TakumāKatsina-Ala Road in Takum LGA. This operation resulted in the arrest of two suspects, Fidelis Nyitar and Isaiah Ioraa. Investigations revealed that the suspects were on their way to procure supplies for militia cells hiding between Dogon Gawa in Takum LGA and Tor Donga in Benue State. The suspects are now in custody, facing further investigation.
On August 21, 2024, the troops’ relentless pursuit of justice led to the arrest of the Tiv militia kingpin, Mela Selim, who is believed to have masterminded the assassination of the Chief of Chanchangi and his son. Selim is currently under interrogation, with efforts ongoing to capture other members of his militia group.
In a separate incident, troops of the 6 Brigade, alongside vigilante members, encountered an ambush by terrorists while patrolling the Lissam, Kuruku, and Kwesati communities in Ussa LGA. The troops successfully repelled the ambush using superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to flee into the bushes. During the pursuit, they discovered blood trails along the escape route and recovered an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, a locally fabricated gun, and two motorcycles. Efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing terrorists.
The commander of the 6 Brigade expressed deep gratitude to the citizens of Taraba State for their invaluable support and the credible intelligence that contributed to the success of these operations. He urged the public to continue supporting the military and security agencies in their mission to restore lasting peace to the region.
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