Troops arrest 73-year-old bandits’ informant, dismantle multiple criminal hideouts in Taraba

The 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/ Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) has arrested a 73-year-old suspected bandits’ informant and collaborator, Alhaji Buba Maru in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area of Taraba State. 

Acting Assistant Director, 6 Brigade Army Public Relations, Captain Olubodunde Oni, who disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, said the suspect specializes in allocating land to bandits to carry out their nefarious activities. 

According to the statement, the arrest follows a robust clearance operation aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts and ensuring the safety of residents.

“The 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/ Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) under the dynamic and proactive leadership of Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to safeguarding Taraba State from the activities of, terrorists, bandits and kidnappers,” the statement read.

“This assurance come following the launch of a robust clearance operation aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts and ensuring the safety of residents, particularly during the ongoing farm harvest and the forthcoming yuletide season.

“The operation, which commenced on Sunday, 17, November 2024, began in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area (LGA), focusing on notorious flashpoints such as Bakin Dutse Mountains in Sunkani and other high grounds. 

“This offensive led to the 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. 

“Subsequently, 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.

“On Monday, November 18, the operation continued into Yorro and Zing Local Government Areas, where more suspected bandit camps, high grounds, and flashpoints were cleared. 

“The Commander, Brigadier General Uwa, took time to pay courtesy visits to the Chairmen of the affected LGAs, who serve as the Chief Security Officers of their domains. 

“During these visit, he emphasized the essence of the 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.

“General Uwa 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. 

“He called on residents to continue providing actionable and credible intelligence to support the seamless execution of security operations.

“The LGA Chairmen, in their responses, lauded the efforts of the Commander and his team for their proactive measures in ensuring peace and security, noting that the operations of the Brigade have allowed residents to sleep with their eyes closed.

“6 Brigade Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its resolve to ensure a safe and secure Taraba State. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and cooperate with security forces to rid the state of all forms of criminality.”