Troops of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have recorded a major operational success following an intelligence-driven raid that led to the recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
In a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, and shared on the Nigerian Army’s Facebook page on Monday, the operation, conducted on January 4, 2026, was based on actionable intelligence regarding the movement of an associate of a notorious criminal kingpin, John Ngata.
Acting swiftly, OPWS troops deployed from Zaki-Biam mounted a snap roadblock along the suspected route and intercepted the suspect without incident.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly cooperated with the troops and led them to a concealed armoury belonging to the criminal network at Amadu Village in Takum LGA.
A subsequent search of the location resulted in the recovery of 13 AK-47 rifles, 39 AK-47 magazines, 690 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and four hand grenades.
The military said the recovered armoury was professionally destroyed to prevent further use, after which the troops safely withdrew to their base.
Commending the troops, the Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, praised their professionalism, swift response, and effective use of intelligence, describing the operation as a significant disruption of a criminal supply chain in the area.
READ ALSO:Â PHOTOS: Troops Recover Large Cache of 12.7mm Ammunition in Maiduguri
Gara reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining troop morale through improved welfare, logistics, and operational readiness.
He also thanked members of the public for their continued cooperation and provision of credible intelligence, noting that community support remains vital to the success of ongoing security operations.
The OPWS commander urged residents to continue sharing timely and actionable information with security agencies, assuring them of confidentiality and prompt response, as the task force remains determined to ensure peace, stability, and the protection of lives and property across its area of responsibility.
He also expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff for his strategic guidance and to the Service Chiefs for their sustained support to the operation.
