OPWS Troops Bust Arms Cache in Taraba Raid

Troops from Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) delivered a crushing blow to criminal networks in Taraba State, seizing a substantial arms cache in a precision intelligence-driven raid on January 4, 2026. The operation unfolded in Takum Local Government Area (LGA), targeting associates of John Ngata, a notorious bandit kingpin whose syndicate has fueled insecurity in Nigeria’s North-Central region.

Acting on credible tips about a key suspect’s movements, OPWS personnel stationed at Zaki-Biam swiftly set up a roadblock along the route. The interception occurred smoothly, with no resistance reported. During initial questioning, the suspect cooperated fully, guiding troops to a hidden armoury in Amadu Village, deep within Takum LGA.

A thorough search uncovered a deadly haul: 13 AK-47 rifles, 39 magazines for the rifles, 690 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and 4 hand grenades. To neutralize the site, troops demolished the armoury, ensuring it could not arm future attacks, before withdrawing safely.

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This raid marks a significant disruption to Ngata’s operations. Public records and security reports identify John Ngata—also known as “Ngata the Butcher”—as a fugitive bandit leader active since at least 2022. Linked to cross-border arms trafficking from Cameroon and multiple kidnappings in Benue and Taraba states, Ngata’s group has clashed repeatedly with OPWS. A 2024 military briefing highlighted his role in escalating farmer-herder violence, with prior raids yielding similar caches. No arrests beyond the initial suspect have been confirmed, but the recovery severs a vital supply line.

Major General Moses Gara, Force Commander of the Joint Task Force OPWS, praised the troops’ professionalism and rapid response. “This success underscores the power of actionable intelligence in dismantling criminal chains,” he stated. Gara emphasized ongoing welfare measures to boost morale, including logistics and readiness enhancements.

He extended gratitude to civilians for their tips, which have proven pivotal. “Community partnership is our strongest weapon,” Gara noted, urging more reports with promises of anonymity and swift action. OPWS, covering Benue, Taraba, and parts of Nasarawa and Niger states, continues its mandate to curb banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes amid rising insecurity.

The command also thanked Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa and the Service Chiefs for unwavering backing. This operation aligns with broader 2025-2026 military gains against bandits, including similar hauls in Zamfara and Katsina, per Defence Headquarters updates.

As Nigeria grapples with armed groups exploiting porous borders, such raids signal intensified counter-terrorism efforts. OPWS vows relentless pursuit of kingpins like Ngata to restore peace.