Nigerian Troops Recover 13 AK-47s in Taraba

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State following an intelligence-driven operation.

The recovery was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Media Information Officer at the Headquarters of Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu.

He stated that the operation was carried out on January 4, 2026, after intelligence reports indicated the movement of an associate linked to a wanted criminal kingpin, John Ngata.

According to the statement, OPWS troops swiftly mounted a snap roadblock at Zaki-Biam, where the suspect was intercepted without resistance. During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly led the troops to a hidden arms depot in Amadu Village.

A subsequent search of the location led to the recovery of 13 AK-47 rifles, 39 AK-47 magazines, 690 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and four hand grenades. The statement added that the armoury was later destroyed in line with standard procedures to prevent further use. 

The Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism, quick response and effective use of intelligence, noting that the operation disrupted a key criminal supply chain and prevented the circulation of lethal weapons.

Gara reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining high troop morale through improved welfare, logistics and operational readiness. He also praised members of the public for providing timely and credible intelligence, describing community cooperation as vital to ongoing security efforts within the joint operations area.

The Force Commander urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with actionable information, assuring them of confidentiality and swift response. 

He stressed that Operation Whirl Stroke remains determined to ensure peace, stability, and the protection of lives and property across its area of responsibility.

Gara also expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff for guidance and to the Service Chiefs for their continued support to the operation.