Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke ,OPWS, have arrested three men suspected of involvement in arson attack in Karim town, Karim Lamido local government council of Taraba State

The incident, according to the acting spokesperson of the Brigade, Lt. Umar Muhammad, occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, 2 December 2025.

According to military authorities, the suspects, Bitrus Ishaya and Mamman Ibrahim, both from the Wudumpi area, of the council, and Emmanuel Adi from Step 2, were apprehended at the scene shortly after a house belonging to a Wurkun resident was set on fire.

“Initial investigations revealed discrepancies in the suspects’ claims of belonging to local security outfits. Bitrus and Mamman, who said they were members of the Taraba Marshal, failed to provide any identification, while Emmanuel Adi, who claimed to be a vigilante, reportedly gave contradictory and suspicious statements”, army said.

Security sources also said the attack appeared to be a deliberate attempt to inflame tensions in the area, which has recently experienced heightened communal unease.

“The swift intervention of troops is believed to have prevented the incident from escalating into broader violence,” the statement claimed.

The suspects, at the time of filing this report, are said to be currently in military custody as authorities work to confirm their identities, motives, and any links to criminal elements posing as community security operatives.

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade, commended the troops for their prompt response and reiterated the military’s commitment to maintaining peace in the state.

He warned that anyone attempting to provoke violence or destabilise communities would face decisive action.

He urged residents to remain calm and continue cooperating with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities as part of ongoing efforts under Operation Peace Shield.