Troops recover arms cache in Taraba after intelligence-led operation
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State after carrying out an intelligence-driven operation on January 4, 2026.
According to a statement shared on Sunday by the Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, via the Nigerian Army’s X handle, the operation followed credible intelligence pointing to the movement of an associate of notorious criminal kingpin John Ngata.
Zubairu explained that OPWS troops acted promptly by establishing a snap roadblock at Zaki-Biam, where the suspect was intercepted without resistance. During initial interrogation, the suspect reportedly cooperated with the troops and led them to a hidden armoury located in Amadu Village.
“Subsequent exploitation of the location resulted in the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition, comprising thirteen AK-47 rifles, thirty-nine AK-47 magazines, six hundred and ninety rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and quantity four hand grenades.
“Following the successful recovery, the armoury was professionally destroyed to prevent further use, and the troops safely withdrew to base,” the post read.
The Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their professionalism, rapid response, and effective use of intelligence, which led to the disruption of a criminal supply network and the recovery of dangerous weapons.
Gara reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining high troop morale through the prioritisation of welfare, logistics, and operational readiness. He also commended members of the public for their sustained cooperation and the provision of credible intelligence, describing community support as vital to ongoing security operations within the Joint Operations Area.
He called on residents to continue supplying timely and actionable information to security agencies, assuring them of confidentiality and swift response, as Operation Whirl Stroke remains determined to ensure peace, stability, and the protection of lives and property across its area of responsibility.
The Force Commander further expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff for his strategic leadership, as well as the Service Chiefs for their continued support to OPWS.