Troops Nab Suspected Gunrunner, Recover Six Machine Guns in Taraba

Security Intelligence gathering and prompt response has boosted the troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) to arrest a suspected gunrunner in Taraba state Nigeria .

9News Nigeria reports that the troops recovered a cache of weapons from the gunrunner during an intelligence-led operation in Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State.

Acting promptly on a tip-off, the soldiers apprehended a 48-year-old suspect, identified as Abubakar Ibrahim, a native of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, and published on the verified Facebook page of the Nigerian Army, a thorough search led to the recovery of six PKT machine guns and two rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

Other items recovered include a cash sum of ₦170,000, a Peugeot 504 vehicle, one Q Seven mobile phone, seven bottles and wraps of perfume, and two small containers of Vaseline.

The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing further investigation.
The statement noted that the interception has dealt a significant blow to criminal networks seeking to proliferate illegal arms within the state, thereby reinforcing ongoing efforts to curb insecurity and safeguard communities.

Commander of 6 Brigade NA/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Micheal Akaliro, commended the troops for their vigilance, professionalism, and rapid response. He urged them to sustain the operational momentum in line with the mandate of the Chief of Army Staff.

The commander also appreciated residents for providing timely and actionable intelligence that contributed to the success of the operation, calling on members of the public to remain security conscious and continue supporting security agencies.

The Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property while working to restore lasting peace and stability across Taraba State.

The operation, carried out on Thursday, February 12, 2026, followed credible intelligence that prompted swift action by troops deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari.