Soldiers kill 4 militia, recover weapons in Taraba

Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have neutralised four armed militia members and recovered weapons during an operation launched in response to renewed communal violence in Usmanu Village, Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The operation was triggered by credible intelligence indicating a resurgence of long-standing land disputes between the two communities.

Spokesperson of the 6 Brigade, Lieutenant Umar Mohammed, in a statement on Sunday said the dispute had escalated into armed clashes, leading to the destruction of property, including the burning of houses.

According to him, troops were immediately deployed to restore order and prevent further escalation of the conflict.

Upon arriving in the area, the soldiers reportedly came under fire from armed militia who emerged from the Fadama axis. A fierce exchange followed, during which four of the attackers were neutralised.

He said that after the engagement, troops recovered one fabricated AK-47 rifle, three dane guns, 25 rounds of 7.6mm special ammunition, and two motorcycles.

In a development that highlights the complexity of the crisis, one personnel of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) was found operating alongside the armed militia and was arrested.

Lieutenant Mohammed said the officer is currently undergoing investigation and profiling to determine his level of involvement.

The Commander of the 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Uwa, commended the troops for their swift action and assured residents of Karim-Lamido and the entire state of the Brigade’s commitment to restoring lasting peace and stability.

He urged communities to embrace peaceful coexistence and continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information.

“The Nigerian Army calls on residents to remain calm and law-abiding as stability is gradually being restored. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security formation as operations continue under Operation Peace Shield, Operation Lafiya Nakowa, and Operation Zafin Wuta,” the spokesperson added.

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