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Army Dislodges Terrorists, Recover 91 Rustled Cattle in Taraba
Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have intensified offensive operations against criminal elements in Southern Taraba, dislodging armed terrorists and recovering 91 rustled cattle in a series of clearance missions conducted between 24 and 25 November 2025.
The coordinated operations, launched across Akesha, Zambana Forest, and Ayu Village in Takum and Donga Local Government Areas, targeted suspected armed herdsmen and other criminal groups believed to be behind recurring attacks on communities, destruction of farmlands, and the displacement of residents.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, troops acted on credible intelligence and advanced on identified hideouts, forcing the criminals to flee.
During the sweep of Akesha village on 24 November, troops recovered 91 cattle allegedly rustled by the fleeing suspects and found grazing on farmlands. The livestock were secured to prevent further destruction and to cut off their use in supporting criminal activities.
The following day, troops made contact with armed terrorists in Zambana Forest and Ayu Village. They engaged the suspects with what the military described as “superior firepower,” compelling them to abandon their positions and retreat deeper into the forest. The Nigerian Army said the assault further degraded the operational capacity of the criminal elements.
The operations also created a safe window for displaced farmers to evacuate their harvested crops—an activity previously hindered by repeated attacks from armed groups.
Addressing troops and community members after the operation, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, restated the Army’s determination to sustain pressure on the criminals and maintain dominance across the area, especially as the yuletide season draws near.
On the recovered cattle, Brigadier General Uwa directed individuals claiming ownership to report to the 93 Battalion in Takum for screening and identification. He insisted that no cattle would be released unless the rightful owners agree to compensate farmers whose farmlands were damaged.
The Commander condemned the recurring violence associated with marauding herders, describing their activities as a major contributor to insecurity in Takum and surrounding areas. He also warned herders entering Taraba from other states to report to traditional leaders and local authorities before settling in any community—saying such procedures are vital for preventing conflict and maintaining peace.
Brigadier General Uwa reaffirmed that Operation Zafin Wuta remains committed to dismantling criminal networks, safeguarding farming communities, restoring law and order, and ensuring that livestock activities do not undermine peace and food security in the region.
The Nigerian Army urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing security operations, assuring the public of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property
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