Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), in collaboration with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, have foiled a terrorist attack on Tor Donga Yam Market in Benue State, neutralising two suspected terrorists and recovering arms and ammunition.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the troops responded swiftly to a distress call on Sunday while conducting fighting and confidence-building patrols around the market.
On arrival, the troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them in a fierce gun battle.
During the encounter, two suspected terrorists, identified as Dantaraba and Golozo, were neutralised, while others fled the scene with varying degrees of injuries.
Items recovered from the suspects included one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, one damaged pistol, one pistol magazine, six rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, nine rounds of 9mm pistol ammunition, one ATM card, one Moniepoint ATM card and other sundry items.
Military sources said the timely intervention of the troops prevented what could have resulted in significant civilian casualties and disruption of commercial activities at the popular Tor Donga Yam Market.
The successful operation also ensured that traders and residents continued their activities without fear of terrorist attacks.
The Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism, resilience and swift response to the incident.
He also praised the Benue State Civil Protection Guard for its collaboration with the military in ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.
Maj.-Gen. Gara further appreciated members of the public for providing credible and timely intelligence, urging residents to sustain their support for security agencies.
He stressed that security remains a collective responsibility and called on citizens to continue reporting suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
By Zagazola Makama
