Nigerian Army Arrests Gunrunners, Recovers 444 Rounds of Ammunition in Taraba

Troops Intercept Gunrunners in Taraba, Recover 444 Rounds of Ammunition in Major Security Breakthrough

In a major breakthrough against rising insecurity in the North-East, troops of the Nigerian Army under the 6 Brigade / Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke have successfully arrested two suspected gunrunners and recovered a large cache of ammunition in Taraba State. The operation highlights ongoing efforts by security forces to dismantle illegal arms networks fueling violence across the region.

The incident occurred on March 19, 2026, during a routine stop-and-search exercise by troops stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Wukari. While monitoring movement along the Wukari–Ikyaior Road, soldiers intercepted two individuals traveling on a motorcycle under suspicious circumstances.  A detailed search led to a shocking discovery of 444 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition hidden in their possession.

The arrested suspects have been identified as, Wisdom Soomga (32), from Ukum LGA, Benue State and Elisha Danladi (38), from Wukari LGA, Taraba State. Authorities believe the suspects may be part of a wider network involved in the illegal movement of arms across state lines.

In addition to the ammunition, troops recovered, N29,200 in cash, two mobile phones, ATM cards, charms, and the motorcycle used for transportation. The presence of charms has also raised suspicions about possible links to organized criminal or militia activities operating in the region.

The suspects and all recovered items are currently in military custody as investigations continue. Security operatives are working to uncover, the source of the ammunition, the intended destination, and possible connections to armed groups or criminal networks. 

This arrest could potentially expose a broader chain of illegal arms distribution fueling violence in Taraba and neighboring states.

The Commander of the 6 Brigade, Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, commended the troops for their vigilance and professionalism. He emphasized that the operation aligns with the directive of the Chief of Army Staff to, crush criminal elements and restore peace across the region. He also assured residents that the Nigerian Army remains fully committed to, protecting lives and property, sustaining offensive operations against criminal groups, and ensuring stability in Taraba State. 

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The Army has called on members of the public to, remain vigilant, report suspicious movements, and support security agencies with credible intelligence. Authorities stress that community cooperation is key in winning the fight against insecurity.

This development is significant because, Illegal arms circulation is a major driver of banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence, Intercepting such weapons prevents potential attacks, and It demonstrates improved intelligence and operational effectiveness by security forces. 

This is more than just an arrest, It is a disruption of a potential threat, a warning to criminal networks, and a signal that security forces are tightening their grip. As investigations unfold, more revelations could emerge about how deep these networks run.