By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, TARABA
TARABA: A swift operation by Nigerian Army troops has led to the arrest of four suspected terrorists in Tau community, Ardo-Kola Local Government Area of Taraba State, as part of intensified efforts to root out criminal elements in the region.
The operation, carried out on May 7 by personnel from the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), was prompted by a distress call from residents over suspicious movements of armed men in the area.
According to a statement issued in Jalingo on Thursday by the brigade’s spokesperson, Captain Oni Olubodunde, the troops acted promptly and tactically, arresting four individuals, three of whom were found with dangerous weapons.
“Items recovered from the suspects include two pump-action rifles, one locally fabricated gun, three cutlasses, 42 cartridges, four mobile phones, and a national identity card,” the statement noted.
Preliminary investigations have revealed that the suspects may have been invited to the area by one Alhaji Ardo Sani, whose involvement is now under close scrutiny by military intelligence.
Commander of the 6 Brigade and Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their quick response and professionalism, describing the arrests as a major step in enhancing local security.
Captain Oni urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information. “The Army remains committed to ensuring peace and security across Taraba and its environs,” he added.
The incident comes amid heightened concerns over the activities of armed groups infiltrating rural communities in the North-East and North-Central regions.