By Zagazola Makama
JALINGO (CONVERSEER) – Troops conducting Operation Peace Shield and Operation Zafin Wuta have cleared multiple bandit hideouts in parts of Southern Taraba, destroying two camps and pushing fleeing fighters into neighbouring Benue State, the military has said.
It was gathered that the operation, carried out by combined troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, targeted bandit enclaves around Shiid village, Tor-Tser general area, Likam Mountain, Agia village and Tyozua village in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The operation, which began at about 0207 hours on 2nd December, followed credible intelligence on the presence and activities of bandits believed to have been hibernating in the mountainous axis.
According to the sources, the troops were split into two teams, with Team A forming a blocking position at Tor-Tser while Team B, the assault element, advanced towards Shiid village near Likam Mountain.
“On sighting the troops, the bandits fled deep into the mountain, abandoning two major camps. The camps were searched, cleared and destroyed,” said the sources.
It was gathered that the fleeing bandits had earlier boasted that troops could not access their hideouts within the mountain range.
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The troops further advanced to Agia and Tyozua villages through Kufai Amadu, clearing adjoining settlements and river lines. Contact was made near Tyozua village where the troops’ superior firepower forced the bandits to escape beyond the power line axis into Benue State.
On arrival at Tyozua, troops discovered that the bandits had razed a wooden bridge in a bid to deny security forces access to the area. The soldiers advanced on foot for about four kilometres, combing the terrain and confirming that the criminals had withdrawn into Benue.
During the encounter, troops arrested one suspect, identified as Dahiru Maigari, who is currently undergoing preliminary investigation.
The operation recorded no casualties, while ammunition expended included nine rounds of 7.62mm x 54mm, 10 rounds of 12.7mm x 108 AP, and 14 rounds of Type 54 12.7mm x 108 AP, all on link.
