Troops conducting ongoing security operations in Taraba State have provided armed protection for farmers and repelled bandits during fighting patrols within Chanchanji axis of Takum Local Government Area.
Sources told Akelicious that the troops arrived Chanchanji town at about 8:15 a.m. on Thursday as part of sustained efforts to flush out bandits and other criminal elements within their Area of Responsibility.
The source said that on arrival, the troops organised farmers and members of the local community, in collaboration with hunters and vigilantes from Chanchanji, and provided security for farming activities up to Demevaa Village, located about 19 kilometres from the town.
According to the source, the troops subsequently carried out patrols and combing operations, clearing several villages under Chanchanji Ward of Takum LGA.
“The villages cleared include Sabe, Iyongaem, Yongu, Adigi, Kpenwe, Tse-Iorver and Tse-Tseve,” the source said.
It added that following credible intelligence on the presence of armed herders suspected to be bandits within the area, the troops projected force towards Zambana Forest.
“While on patrol within the forest, troops made contact with the bandits. Due to superior firepower, the bandits fled deeper into the forest,” the source said.
The source further disclosed that the troops conducted a hot pursuit and re-engaged the fleeing bandits, suppressing them with heavy volume of fire and forcing them to retreat in disarray.
During the encounter, the troops reportedly expended 12.7mm ammunition as well as one 60mm mortar bomb.
“No casualty was recorded on the side of the troops. The troops remain dominant, while clearance operations in the general area are ongoing,” the source added.
