Security forces operating under the Nigerian Army’s Operation Whirl Stroke have disrupted an alleged arms trafficking ring in Taraba State with the arrest of two suspects.
The Nigerian Army announced the development on Monday via its official X handle, explaining that the arrests followed a carefully planned intelligence operation involving troops of 6 Brigade, Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, and personnel of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).
The first suspect, identified as Christopher Adamu, popularly known as “Suffer,” was taken into custody on January 11, 2026, at Sebos Joint in the Mayo Dasa area of Jalingo Local Government Area.
The 48-year-old was reportedly tracked and arrested after security operatives acted on reliable intelligence linking him to the illegal movement of weapons.
A search conducted at the time of his arrest led to the recovery of several personal items, including a hunter’s identification card, ATM cards, a National Identification Card, a keypad mobile phone, jewelry, and various charms.
During questioning, Adamu allegedly admitted to collaborating with an individual known as “Chmn” from Shomo Gari in Karim Lamido Local Government Area.
Information obtained from the interrogation paved the way for a follow-up operation, which resulted in the arrest of a second suspect, James Yangyang, 37, at Tautre Village near Anguwan Bera in Ardo Kola Local Government Area.
Investigators further uncovered that Adamu had allegedly supplied an AK-47 rifle to a resident of Murbai Village, identified as Bazoe John, in November 2025, pointing to an established arms distribution channel within the state.
The two suspects are currently being held by the military and are expected to be transferred to the appropriate law enforcement agencies once investigations are completed.
Reacting to the success of the operation, the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, praised the professionalism of the troops and intelligence officers involved.
He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to stamping out illegal arms trading and warned those aiding criminal activities that security forces would continue to pursue them relentlessly. The commander also appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information, assuring them that all tips would be treated with confidentiality.
