The Nigerian Army has arrested a police officer accused of working with militias in Taraba State following renewed communal violence in Usmanu, a village in Karim Lamido Local Government Area. Troops of the Six Brigade operating under Operation Peace Shield said they neutralised four militia members and recovered several weapons, including three dane guns, a fabricated AK forty seven rifle, twenty five rounds of seven point six two millimetre ammunition, and two motorcycles reportedly used in the attacks. The development was announced in a statement issued on Sunday in Jalingo by Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the Six Brigade.
He explained that the operation was based on intelligence reports indicating rising hostilities linked to a prolonged land dispute between the Shomo and Wurkun communities, a conflict that has repeatedly escalated into violent clashes, destroying property and endangering civilians. The police officer was arrested at the scene for allegedly assisting the militia, and the army confirmed that the officer is now under investigation as authorities work to determine the extent of his involvement.
Kingsley Uwa, commander of Six Brigade and Sector Three under Operation Whirl Stroke, praised the troops for their swift and professional conduct and assured residents of Karim Lamido and nearby areas that the army remains committed to restoring peace. He urged citizens to support security efforts by providing credible intelligence.
In his words, “The arrested personnel of the police force are currently under investigation to ascertain the degree of complicity. We will continue to pursue all elements that threaten the peace of Taraba State.” The army also encouraged the public to report any suspicious movement as operations continue under Operation Peace Shield, Operation Lafiya Nakowa, and Operation Zafin Wuta.
