Emmanuel Daudu
Troops of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have recorded a significant operational success following a well-coordinated, intelligence-driven raid that led to the recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The operation, carried out on January 4, 2026, was launched after troops received actionable intelligence on the movement of an associate linked to a notorious criminal kingpin, identified as John Ngata. Acting swiftly, OPWS troops deployed from Zaki-Biam mounted a snap roadblock along the suspected route, where the suspect was intercepted without resistance.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly cooperated with troops and led them to a concealed armoury belonging to the criminal network at Amadu Village in Takum LGA. A follow-up search of the location resulted in the recovery of a substantial cache of weapons, including 13 AK-47 rifles, 39 AK-47 magazines, 690 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and four hand grenades.
Military sources confirmed that the armoury was professionally destroyed after the recovery to prevent further use by criminal elements, after which the troops safely withdrew to their base.
Commending the operation, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their professionalism, swift response and effective utilisation of intelligence, noting that the operation had successfully disrupted a criminal supply chain.
Major General Gara reiterated his commitment to sustaining high troop morale through improved welfare, logistics support and enhanced operational readiness.
He also expressed appreciation to members of the public for their continued cooperation and provision of credible intelligence, describing community support as a critical factor in the ongoing fight against criminality within the Joint Operations Area.
The Force Commander urged residents to sustain the flow of timely and actionable information to security agencies, assuring them of confidentiality and prompt response.
He reaffirmed OPWS’ resolve to ensure peace, stability and the protection of lives and property across its area of responsibility.
Major General Gara further thanked the Chief of Defence Staff for his strategic guidance and the Service Chiefs for their sustained support to Operation WHIRL STROKE.
Africa Security Investigation News 