In a significant blow to criminal networks operating in Taraba State, troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully intercepted the wife of a high-profile criminal and destroyed a major hidden armoury.
Operation Whirl Stroke Strikes in Takum
The operation, carried out by forces of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), took place in Amadu Village, Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State. A credible military source at the Army Headquarters disclosed the details to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday, January 4, 2026.
Acting on actionable intelligence, the military received information that the wife of a notorious criminal kingpin, John Gata, was on the move. The intelligence indicated her planned route from Amadu Village through Wukari, Kyado, and Zaki-Biam toward Gboko.
Swift Interception and Discovery
Responding swiftly, troops of Sub Sector 1A established a snap roadblock at Zaki-Biam. The operation was a success, as they intercepted the woman without any incident or exchange of fire.
The breakthrough came when the intercepted suspect later cooperated with the troops, leading them to her husband's concealed weapons storage facility. At the location, the soldiers made a substantial discovery:
- 13 AK-47 rifles
- 38 magazines
- 690 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
- 4 hand grenades
Denying Resources to Criminals
To ensure these dangerous weapons could not be used to threaten the peace of the region, the military took decisive action. The armoury was completely destroyed, effectively denying the criminal network these critical resources.
The source confirmed that all troops involved returned safely to their base. He noted that while the security situation in the area remains calm, it is still unpredictable. Relations between the military and the civilian population in the region are described as cordial.
"Troops' morale and operational readiness continue to remain high as fighting and confidence-building patrols persist in the region," the source stated, highlighting the ongoing commitment of the armed forces to stabilise the area.
This operation underscores the Nigerian Army's continued efforts to dismantle criminal infrastructures and enhance security in the country's troubled regions through proactive intelligence-driven missions.
