Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have recorded a major operational success following a well-coordinated, intelligence-led operation that led to the recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The operation, conducted on January 4, 2026, followed actionable intelligence on the movement of an associate of a notorious criminal kingpin, John Ngata. Acting swiftly, OPWS troops deployed from Zaki-Biam and immediately established a snap roadblock along the suspected route.
The suspect was intercepted at Zaki-Biam without incident and, during preliminary interrogation, voluntarily led the troops to a concealed armoury belonging to the criminal network at Amadu Village in Takum LGA.
Further exploitation of the location resulted in the recovery of thirteen AK-47 rifles, thirty-nine AK-47 magazines, six hundred and ninety rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and four hand grenades. Following the recovery, the armoury was professionally destroyed to prevent further use, and the troops safely withdrew to base.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism, swift response and effective use of intelligence, noting that the operation successfully disrupted a criminal supply chain and removed lethal weapons from circulation.
Major General Gara reiterated his commitment to sustaining high troop morale through the prioritisation of welfare, logistics support and operational readiness. He also thanked members of the public for their continued cooperation and provision of credible intelligence, describing community support as a critical enabler in the fight against criminality within the Joint Operations Area.
He urged residents to continue to provide timely and actionable information to security agencies, assuring them of confidentiality and prompt response, as Operation WHIRL STROKE remains resolute in ensuring peace, stability, and the protection of lives and property across its area of responsibility.
The Force Commander further expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff for his strategic guidance and the Service Chiefs for their sustained support to OPWS.
