Troops of Sector 1 under Operation WHIRL STROKE have recorded another major operational success in their ongoing efforts to rid Benue State of criminal and terrorist elements. The feat was achieved during a combined confidence-building and fighting patrol conducted along the Katsina-Ala–Zaki Biam Road.
Acting on credible intelligence provided by members of the local community, the troops swiftly mobilised to the scene in conjunction with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard. According to the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the troops made contact with suspected bandits upon arrival at the identified location.
In the ensuing engagement, two of the terrorists were neutralised, while others fled into the surrounding bush with possible gunshot wounds. The troops subsequently exploited the area and recovered one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, eight rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and a pair of green camouflage uniform abandoned by the fleeing criminals.
The Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the gallantry, professionalism and swift response of the troops, noting that their proactive posture and commitment to duty continue to yield positive results in the fight against terrorism and banditry.
He also expressed appreciation to members of the local communities for providing timely and actionable intelligence, which he described as critical to operational success. The Force Commander encouraged residents to sustain their cooperation with security agencies and assured them of the military’s unwavering resolve to safeguard lives and property.
Major General Gara further urged troops to maintain the existing synergy with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders, stressing that collective efforts remain essential to achieving enduring security and stability across the Joint Operations Area.
