Operation Whirl Stroke arrests three terror supporters in Taraba

Troops of the Army’s Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) seized three suspects alleged to have aided terrorist elements during a coordinated raid in Karim‑Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State on the morning of 10 May 2026. The operation, conducted by OPWS Sector 3 units based in Jimilari, began at approximately 06:10 a.m. after intelligence officials flagged the presence of criminal activity in the communities of Binari, Chibi and Andamin. Acting on the tip‑off, soldiers moved into the three villages, locating and apprehending the men they say were providing logistical support to armed groups operating in the area. Security sources quoted by analyst Zagazola Makama said the three detainees are suspected of facilitating the movements and supplies of terrorists active in the Karim‑Lamido region. Military officials confirmed that the suspects are now in custody and are being interrogated to determine the extent of their involvement and any possible connections to wider criminal networks. In a statement, the Directorate of Operations for OPWS reiterated its commitment to “continue clearance operations and intelligence‑driven raids in vulnerable communities,” adding that the moves are aimed at dismantling support structures for illicit actors and restoring security for local residents. The forces said they will maintain pressure on the identified hideouts and pursue any further leads that emerge from the ongoing investigations. The arrests come amid heightened security concerns across Nigeria’s northeastern and north‑central zones, where insurgent and bandit groups have increasingly exploited remote villages as staging grounds. Authorities have repeatedly stressed that community cooperation and timely intelligence are crucial to disrupting these networks. While the three suspects have not been formally charged, the operation underscores the army’s intensified focus on pre‑emptive actions against terrorism‑linked activities in Taraba State. Observers note that continued military presence and regular engagements with local leaders will be essential to sustain the gains achieved by the raid and to prevent a resurgence of extremist support in the region. The situation remains fluid as investigators complete their inquiries. Further updates are expected from OPWS command regarding any additional arrests or prosecutions stemming from the May 10 operation.