Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke have successfully thwarted a robbery, rescued kidnapped travellers, and recovered arms in separate operations across Taraba State.

The incidents occurred on December 6, 2025, in Manya and surrounding areas of Takum Local Government Council, according to a statement released on Monday by Lt. Umar Muhammad, acting spokesperson of the Brigade.

“On December 6, soldiers deployed in Manya responded to a distress call after armed robbers blocked the Manya–Takum Road and began dispossessing travellers,” the statement said.

“The troops launched a rapid clearance operation, forcing the criminals to flee and abandon their weapons. An AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, and three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition were recovered. Their intervention restored safety and movement along the busy route.”

In a separate operation in Kufai Amadu, Takum Council, the troops rescued two kidnapped men following reports that four travellers from Bauchi State had been abducted while seeking directions en route to Baissa in Kurmi Local Government Council.

“Preliminary findings indicate that two of the men, identified as Musa Danji and Yusuf, were taken by their abductors towards New City. Coordinated search operations led to the rescue of two others, Yusuf Musa and Muhammed Umar, who escaped from captivity. Search efforts for the remaining hostages are ongoing,” the statement added.

In another intelligence-led operation on December 6 in Garin Sambo, Tau Village, Iware, Ardo-Kola Local Government Council, troops recovered weapons and arrested two suspects.

“Soldiers seized two pump-action guns, 13 cartridges, two motorcycles, and four mobile phones. Two men, Baba Wura Sambo and Mallam Adamu Darda, were taken into custody for alleged illegal possession of arms. The suspects and recovered items remain in military custody for further investigation,” the statement read.

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade, commended the professionalism and swift response of the troops. He reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks across Taraba and assured residents and commuters of heightened security during the Yuletide season.

He also urged the public to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing peace and security efforts in the state.