Army arrests two gunrunners, recovers ammunition in Taraba

Army arrests two gunrunners, recovers ammunition in Taraba

Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested two suspected gunrunners and recovered 444 rounds of ammunition in Taraba State.

Troops of the 6 Brigade

In a statement on Thursday signed by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lt. Umar Muhammad, the suspects were arrested during a routine stop-and-search operation along the Wukari–Ikyaior Road in Wukari Local Government Area.

“The operation, conducted on 19 March 2026, led to the interception and arrest of two suspects who were riding on a motorcycle,” the statement said.

The suspects were identified as Mr Wisdom Soomga, 32 years old, from Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, and Mr Elisha Danladi, 38 years old, a native of Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.

A thorough search of the suspects led to the recovery of 444 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition,” it stated.

“Other items recovered include cash totalling ₦29,200, two mobile phones, ATM cards, charms, personal belongings, and the motorcycle used for transportation.”

The statement added that “both suspects and the recovered items are currently in custody for further investigation to ascertain the source and intended use of the ammunition.”

The Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation WHIRL STROKE, Brig.-Gen. Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro commended the troops for their vigilance and prompt response.

He said the action was “in line with the directives of the Chief of Army Staff to decisively eliminate criminal elements and enhance security across Taraba State.”

Akaliro urged the troops “to sustain the momentum and remain resolute in their efforts to rid the area of all forms of criminality.”

He also assured law-abiding citizens of the Nigerian Army’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while calling on the public to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information on suspicious activities.

The commander further reiterated his commitment to discipline and professionalism.

He said, “Officers and soldiers who demonstrate professionalism, dedication, and courage during operations will be duly recognised and rewarded.”