The Nigerian Army stopped attacks on Kweserti village in Taraba State and killed two armed militia members based on a tip-off.
The soldiers, acting on information, managed to stop the attack after a fierce gunfight with the militias.
As a result of the troops' confrontation, the militias were forced to retreat in disarray.
Recently, there has been an increase in militia attacks on communities in Taraba.
In Gbuo village, Akate Ward, Donga Local Government Council of Taraba State, militias killed two people on Tuesday.
In March 2024, militias ambushed a bus carrying 10 passengers at the Taraba-Benue border along the Wukari – Zaki Biam Highway.
A statement from the Nigerian Army on X on Thursday mentioned that arms and ammunition were seized from the militias during the operation.
The Army also stated that they conducted clearance operations in other communities in Taraba State.
The post mentioned, “The troops of 93 Battalion Sub-Sector 3B OPWS, acting on credible intelligence, carried out clearance operations in Rikwenmakpawere and Alaha villages in Ussa Local Government Area. A foiled attack at Kweserti village prompted the swift response of the troops, who engaged the armed militias with superior firepower, forcing them to retreat in disarray.
“During the operation, two extremists were neutralized, and 1 AK-47 magazine along with 7 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition were recovered from the fleeing militants.”
The Army also mentioned that two terrorists were arrested during a separate operation in Lau Local Government Area.
“In Lau Local Government Area, troops of 114 Battalion Sub-Sector 3C made significant strides in combating violent extremism by apprehending two suspected extremists.
“Subsequent interrogation of the suspects led to the recovery of additional weapons, including 1 SMG rifle, 1 Single Barrel Gun, 2 AK-47 magazines, and 51 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition,” the post added.
The Army stated that troops would ensure the security of lives and properties of citizens in the state, pledging that criminals would be brought to justice.
The service said, “Troops of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS continue to prioritize the safety and security of all citizens in Taraba State. These relentless efforts in dismantling criminal elements and bringing perpetrators to justice underscore our commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region.
“We therefore urge members of the public to continually support the military by providing timely and actionable information towards combating violent extremism, insurgency and all forms of violent extremism in the state.”
