Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have recorded another major success in their ongoing efforts to rid Benue State of armed criminal elements, with the recovery of a cache of arms and ammunition during a clearance operation on Friday, August 2, 2025.
The operation, carried out by troops deployed to Tse Adudu in Gwer West Local Government Area, led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
The arms were carefully wrapped in a protective blanket and hidden in a makeshift hut, believed to have been used by criminal herdsmen responsible for persistent farm destruction in Akpiti village, Gbanga/Tongo council ward.
According to a press statement by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, the operation was conducted following credible intelligence from local residents. Community members reported the illegal grazing of cattle and destruction of farmland by armed herders, prompting swift military action.
"Upon hearing the sound of approaching motorcycles and catching sight of advancing troops, the herders abandoned their cattle and fled into the surrounding bushes," the statement read. A thorough search of the area by the troops resulted in the discovery of the hidden weapon cache.
Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their bravery, professionalism, and commitment to protecting rural communities. He also praised residents for their patriotism and active role in providing timely intelligence that led to the success of the mission.
General Gara reiterated the commitment of OPWS to restoring lasting peace in the region and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation between security forces and local communities.
"Only through sustained synergy between the people and our troops can we completely eradicate criminal elements threatening food security and socio-economic stability in our communities," he said.
Operation Whirl Stroke, a military initiative launched to address security challenges in Benue and surrounding states, continues to maintain momentum in flushing out armed groups and restoring normalcy to affected areas