By Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army have recovered arms and the corpse of a slain soldier as they intensified search-and-rescue (SAR) operations following a deadly ambush on a patrol team in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
Military sources confirmed that the ongoing operation was launched in response to a recent attack on troops at Tyojande village, Takum LGA, where soldiers came under heavy fire from armed elements, resulting in casualties.
According to an operational update obtained on Tuesday, troops acting on credible intelligence provided by local residents in the Kufai Amadu axis advanced to the general area of the ambush on December 17, determined to track down the attackers and account for all missing personnel.
During the operation, the troops made contact with armed elements near Ange village, about two kilometres from the spot where the body of the slain soldier was later discovered. The troops, leveraging superior firepower, overwhelmed the assailants, forcing them to abandon their positions.
Sources disclosed that the fleeing attackers used cattle as cover while retreating into thick vegetation before escaping towards nearby mountainous terrain. A hot pursuit followed, leading to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, additional military items, and three empty magazines, all concealed at different locations within the area.
The troops later advanced on foot through Tyojande and Yumga villages, extending their operation to Ande and Nbaume communities within the Kufai Amadu axis. No further contact with the fleeing gunmen was recorded during the sweep.
Military sources confirmed that the corpse of a late Lance Corporal was recovered in the Tyojande general area. Meanwhile, search-and-rescue efforts remain ongoing to locate one soldier still missing after the ambush.
Reaffirming its resolve, the Nigerian Army vowed to sustain operations in the area until all personnel are accounted for and criminal elements are completely denied freedom of action.
“The troops remain focused, resilient, and committed to restoring security and ensuring that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice,” the source added.
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