Taraba government clarifies reports of a missing forest guard in the state.

The Taraba state government has denied claims that forest guards are missing from farming communities throughout the state, stating that all personnel recruited under the programme have been fully deployed.

Speaking in Jalingo on Tuesday, Colonel Joshua Garbiya Kwelle (rtd), the Special Adviser to Governor Agbu Kefas on Security and Intelligence Matters, said the 750 forest guards hired by the state have completed training and are now stationed across the 16 local government councils.

Kwelle explained that the forest guard programme, launched in 2025, was created to protect forest corridors, collect intelligence, and prevent bandits and other criminal groups from using forests as operational bases.

He added that the operatives are positioned at strategic points throughout the state, with offices established in every local government area to support their activities.

The security adviser noted that, although the forest guards are not assigned traditional community‑policing duties, their work is essential for improving security for farming communities and rural residents.

Addressing concerns about the welfare of the personnel, Kwelle said arrangements are being made to ensure salaries are paid, and that the salary structure is currently being finalized pending completion of federal government processes.

He praised Governor Kefas for his commitment to enhancing security across Taraba through sustained investment and support for security initiatives.

Kwelle also urged journalists, bloggers, and content creators to verify information from credible sources before publishing, warning that misinformation could create unnecessary fear and anxiety among residents.

He reassured citizens that the forest guards remain fully operational and dedicated to protecting communities across the state.