Troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have arrested three suspects in connection with the burning of a residence in Karim Town, Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The suspects identified as Bitrus Ishaya and Mamman Ibrahim from the Wudumpi area, and Emmanuel Adi from Step 2 were apprehended in the early hours of Tuesday, shortly after the house belonging to a Wurkun resident was set ablaze.

According to a statement released by Lt. UMAR MUHAMMAD, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army said the preliminary investigations revealed that the claims by Bitrus and Mamman to be members of the Taraba Marshal were false, as neither suspect could provide official identification. Similarly, Emmanuel Adi, who claimed to be a vigilante operative, reportedly made contradictory and suspicious statements during initial interrogation.

Security officials believe the act may have been a deliberate attempt to inflame existing tensions in parts of Karim Lamido LGA, where recent inter-community concerns have heightened security alerts.

The swift intervention of troops, however, is said to have prevented the incident from escalating into a broader communal crisis.

The suspects are currently in military custody as investigations continue to determine their true identities, motives, and any possible links to criminal groups operating under the guise of community security outfits.

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade, commended the troops for their professionalism, assuring residents of the Brigade’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability across Taraba State. He warned that anyone attempting to instigate violence or destabilise communities would face decisive action in accordance with the law.

The Commander urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, as part of ongoing efforts under Operation Peace Shield.