Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have intensified their onslaught against criminal elements in Benue State, foiling fresh attempts by armed bandits and recovering a cache of weapons in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.
Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, disclosed in a statement that the operations, conducted between 26 and 28 September 2025, further boosted residents’ confidence in security agencies and strengthened trust between locals and the military.
On 26 September, troops deployed at Abaji acted on credible intelligence regarding the movement of armed bandits at Agurugu village. The soldiers swiftly mobilized and made contact with the criminals at Sheekan village.
Overpowered by the troops’ superior firepower, the bandits fled, abandoning one automatic pistol, three 9mm rounds, thirty-three 7.62mm special ammunition, fifteen 5.56 x 45mm rounds, two AK-47 magazines, and twenty-nine mobile phones.
In a related development on 28 September, troops on a fighting patrol from Gbise advanced towards Igyudu village following reports of bandit activity. Once again, the criminals abandoned their positions on sighting the soldiers. A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of one single-barrel gun, three rounds of 7.62mm NATO, two AK-47 magazines, one G3 magazine, a hand grenade, a tear gas canister, assorted medical kits, and an Itel phone.
Commending the troops, Force Commander JTF OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, hailed their bravery, swift response, and professionalism. He stressed that the gallantry displayed was proof that current strategies by the Nigerian Army and sister security agencies were yielding positive results.
“We remain committed to restoring lasting peace in Benue and neighbouring states. Our troops have shown resilience and determination, and we will not relent until these areas are completely secured,” General Gara assured.
He further urged communities in Katsina-Ala and adjoining areas to continue cooperating with the military by providing credible and timely information to aid ongoing operations.