Troops of Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, have intensified intelligence-driven operations across the Joint Operations Area, dislodging a suspected terrorist hideout and arresting five persons believed to be associated with a notorious bandit operating around Peva in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu Acting Media Information Officer HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE said the operation was conducted in the early hours of Thursday, 3 September 2026, following credible intelligence received by the troops at about 12:30am concerning the hideout of a notorious bandit at Peva.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, troops of Sector 1, in conjunction with troops of Sector 3, both under Operation WHIRL STROKE, launched a precision raid at the identified location.
However, the terrorists were apparently alerted by informants about the advancing troops and fled the area before the arrival of troops. Undeterred, the troops conducted a thorough search of the general area, resulting in the arrest of five persons suspected to be associates of the fleeing terrorist.
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During the operation, troops recovered significant items believed to have been used or kept by the criminal elements. The recovered items include two AK-47 rifle magazines, 46 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one woodland camouflage jacket and jungle hat, four charm vests, as well as assorted charms.
The arrest of the five suspects and recovery of weapons-related items and other paraphernalia have further provided the security forces with useful leads that could assist ongoing efforts to identify and apprehend fleeing members of the criminal gang.
OPWS reassures residents of Taraba State and other parts of the Joint Operations Area of its unwavering determination to maintain pressure on terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements until peace and security are fully restored.
Members of the public are equally encouraged to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, as collective vigilance and cooperation remain critical to defeating criminal elements and securing communities.
