Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade have neutralised four armed militia members and recovered weapons during a swift operation launched in response to renewed communal violence in Usmanu Village, Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The intervention followed credible intelligence that the long-standing land dispute between the Shomo and Wurkun communities had flared up again, resulting in armed clashes and the burning of several houses.
The Army said troops were immediately deployed under Operation Peace Shield to halt the violence and stabilise the area.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations for 6 Brigade, Lt. Umar Muhammad, the soldiers came under attack shortly after arriving in the community.
It was gathered that armed assailants reportedly opened fire from the Fadama axis, prompting a brief but intense exchange in which four militia members were killed.
A subsequent sweep of the area led to the recovery of three dane guns, a fabricated AK-47 rifle, 25 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and two motorcycles.
In a development the Army described as concerning, troops also arrested a personnel of the Nigeria Police Force found operating alongside the armed militia. He is currently undergoing investigation to determine his level of involvement.
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The Commander 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their professionalism and rapid response.
He reaffirmed the Brigade’s resolve to flush out criminal elements and maintain security across Taraba State.
General Uwa appealed to residents of Karim Lamido and neighbouring communities to remain calm and support ongoing operations with credible information, stressing that cooperation is crucial to restoring lasting peace.
The Army assured the public that stability is gradually returning and urged citizens to report suspicious activities as operations continue under Operation Peace Shield, Operation Lafiya Nakowa and Operation Zafin Wuta.
