Troops Bust Gunrunning Syndicate in Taraba, Arrest Two, Recover AK-47 Rifle
Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army have dismantled a gunrunning syndicate operating in southern Taraba, arresting two suspects and recovering an AK-47 rifle and other items during a targeted operation in Wukari Local Government Area.
Captain Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the brigade, disclosed the development in a statement on Thursday.
He said the operation was based on credible intelligence about suspicious activity at a settlement in Byepi Village along Tsukundi Road, prompting troops stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari to conduct a swift tactical raid.
The operation led to the arrest of two suspects identified as 55-year-old Buba Idi and 29-year-old Isiyaka Yusufa. Following their apprehension, further interrogation led to the recovery of weapons and other materials linked to the gunrunning network.
Items recovered include:
- One AK-47 rifle
- One AK-47 magazine
- Sixteen rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
- One Tecno mobile phone
- One Bajaj motorcycle
The suspects are currently in custody undergoing preliminary investigation.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), praised the troops for their professionalism and quick response. He emphasized that the operation is part of broader efforts to curb the spread of illegal arms and strengthen security in Taraba.
He reaffirmed the brigade’s commitment to neutralizing criminal networks across its area of responsibility and urged residents to continue supporting security forces with timely and credible information.
General Uwa also thanked the people of Taraba State for their cooperation and called for sustained collaboration to ensure lasting peace and safety in the region.
