The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of four militia members and the arrest of a serving police officer during a security operation in Taraba State. The incident occurred on Sunday, 30th November 2025, in Usmanu Village, Karim-Lamido Local Government Area.
Military Operation in Response to Land Dispute
According to military authorities, the deployment was triggered by credible intelligence about a resurgence of violent clashes between the Shomo and Wurkun communities. The long-standing land dispute had escalated dramatically, with reports of several houses being set ablaze before security forces intervened.
Lt. Umar Muhammad, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 6 Brigade, disclosed these details in an official statement released to journalists in Jalingo. The statement revealed that troops came under immediate fire upon arriving in the conflict zone, with assailants attacking from the Fadama axis.
Weapons Recovered and Police Officer Detained
Following a brief exchange of gunfire that resulted in four militia casualties, security forces conducted a thorough sweep of the area. The operation led to the recovery of significant weapons cache including three Dane guns, one fabricated AK-47 rifle, 25 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and two motorcycles.
In a controversial development, the Army arrested a serving member of the Nigeria Police Force who was allegedly operating alongside the armed group. The police officer is currently undergoing investigation to determine the extent of his involvement in the clashes.
Conflicting Accounts from Police Command
The Taraba State Police Command has provided a contrasting version of events regarding the arrested officer. In a statement signed by ASP Victor Mshelizah, the Acting Police Public Relations Officer, the command insisted the officer was on official duty at his legitimate post in Usmanu outstation.
"The officer in question was stationed at his legitimate duty post in uniform and on duty. At no point was the officer involved in any unlawful activity or association with criminal elements," the police statement asserted.
The police command dismissed circulating reports about the officer's involvement with militias or possession of prohibited items as false, noting that preliminary investigations confirmed the officer was performing routine surveillance during unrest and cooperated fully with military responders.
Military Leadership Commends Troops
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade and Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke, praised the soldiers for their swift and professional response to the crisis. He reaffirmed the Brigade's commitment to restoring lasting peace across Taraba State and sustaining operations against criminal elements.
General Uwa appealed to residents of Karim-Lamido and neighboring communities to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and provide timely information that could aid ongoing security efforts. The Army also assured the public that stability operations under Peace Shield, Lafiya Nakowa, and Zafin Wuta initiatives remain active throughout the region.
