Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE in the North Central have neutralized 3 terrorists, arrested 22 violent extremists and rescued 14 kidnapped hostages within one week after conducting offensive operations and counter/anti kidnapping operations in Bwari Area Council of FCT Abuja.
Major General Edward Buba, the director Defence Media Operations noted that between 27 August – 2 September 2024, troops in separate offensive operations responded to information on activities of suspected violent extremists/kidnappers in Gwer West and Ukum LGAs of Benue State as well as Takum LGA of Taraba State.
He said during the operations, troops neutralized 3 extremists, arrested 10 and rescued 4 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered 5 AK47 Rifles, 2 fabricated Rifles, 2 Single Barrel guns, 4 dane guns, one AK 47 Rifle butt, 661 rounds of 7.62 mm Special, 28 cartridges and 9 motorcycles amongst other item.
On 2 September 2024, troops conducted combined offensive operations with ONSA team and security agencies to Gidan Gogo and Kuyeri Forest in Bwari Area Council of the FCT. The operations extended to Kagarko LGA of Kaduna State.
During the operations, troops arrested 6 violent extremists including 2 female terrorists collaborators responsible for negotiations with relatives of victims for ransom.
On 30 August 2024, troop while conducting counter/anti kidnapping operations,in Bwari Area Council of FCT Abuja. Troops rescued a kidnap hostage in pursuit of the violent extremist.
Also on 2 and 3 September 2024, troops in separate routine patrols in AMAC of FCT Abuja intercepted and arrested 4 criminals. Troops recovered 2 vehicles and 5 mobile phones. Further investigation, ongoing.
Troops recovered 5 AK47 rifles, 2 fabricated rifles, 4 danguns, 2 single barel guns, 661 7.62mm special ammo, 28 live cartridges, 2 vehicles, 9 motorcycles and 5 mobile phones.