Troops kill four militiamen in Taraba

Troops of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have killed four armed militiamen and recovered weapons during an operation launched to stop renewed communal violence in Usmanu Village, Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The deployment followed intelligence reports of fresh clashes in the long-running land dispute between the Shomo and Wurkun communities — a conflict that led to the destruction of property, including several houses set ablaze.

According to the Army, troops restoring order came under attack from armed militiamen operating around the Fadama axis. A gun battle ensued, leaving four of the attackers dead.

Items recovered include three Dane guns, one locally fabricated AK-47 rifle, twenty-five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and two motorcycles.

The military also arrested a police officer found operating alongside the armed militia. He is currently being investigated to determine his role in the violence.

Commander of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brig.-Gen. Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, praised the troops for their swift response and professionalism. He said the Brigade remains committed to flushing out criminal elements and maintaining peace across Taraba State.

He assured residents of Karim Lamido and the entire state that the Army will sustain its operations until lasting peace is restored.