Operation Peace Shield: Troops Arrest Three Suspects in Taraba, Prevent Fresh Communal Violence
Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have apprehended three individuals suspected of involvement in an arson attack in Karim Town, Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The swift intervention of the soldiers is credited with averting what could have escalated into a fresh round of communal unrest.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, December 2, 2025, when a house belonging to a resident of the Wurkun community was set ablaze.
Troops on patrol responded immediately and intercepted the suspects Bitrus Ishaya and Mamman Ibrahim from the Wudumpi area, and Emmanuel Adi from Step 2 at the scene.
Preliminary investigations indicated that Bitrus and Mamman falsely claimed to be members of the Taraba Marshal, but were unable to provide any official identification to support their claims. Emmanuel Adi, who said he was a vigilante operative, reportedly gave conflicting and suspicious statements during questioning.
Their inconsistent accounts and presence at the crime scene led to their arrest.
Security sources believe the attack may have been a calculated attempt to exploit existing tensions within Karim Lamido LGA, a region where recent incidents among local communities have heightened concerns.
The army’s prompt response prevented the situation from escalating into wider violence.
The suspects are currently in military custody as investigations continue to determine their true identities, motives, and possible links to criminal groups operating under the guise of local security outfits.
Reacting to the development, Commander of the 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, commended the troops for their professionalism and vigilance.
He reiterated the army’s commitment to maintaining stability in Taraba State under Operation Peace Shield, warning that anyone attempting to destabilise communities or incite violence would be dealt with decisively and in accordance with the law.
He also urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report any suspicious activities to aid ongoing peacekeeping efforts.
The statement was issued by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army.
