Troops of the Operation Whirl Stroke have neutralised two suspected terrorists and recovered arms and other items during an intelligence-led operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, authorities said.
The operation took place on March 9, 2026, at Tse-Anka community in Yooyo Council Ward when troops conducting confidence-building patrols received credible intelligence about the activities of suspected terrorists in the area. The patrols were aimed at reassuring residents and denying criminal elements freedom of action across affected communities.
According to military authorities, the troops swiftly mobilised to the location alongside operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard to confront the suspected criminals.
Upon arrival, security personnel encountered the armed group, leading to what officials described as a brief but intense firefight. Two of the suspected terrorists were killed during the exchange, while several others reportedly escaped from the scene with possible gunshot wounds.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition and other items believed to belong to the fleeing suspects. Items recovered included an AK-47 rifle, five rifle magazines, sixty-one rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one round of 7.62mm by 54 ammunition and nine rounds of 9mm ammunition. Troops also recovered a Bajaj motorcycle, eighty-two SIM cards, six ATM cards and several charms suspected to have been used by the criminals.
The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Moses Gara, commended the troops and collaborating security personnel for their swift response and professionalism during the operation.
Major General Gara said the success of the mission reflects the sustained operational pressure being mounted against criminal elements across the joint operations area. He noted that “the success recorded in the operation was a reflection of the consistent operational pressure being mounted against criminal elements across the Joint Operations Area.”
He added that the military’s ongoing intelligence-driven operations and fighting patrols have continued to produce positive results in the campaign against terrorism and banditry.
The commander also reassured residents that security forces remain committed to protecting lives and property in the region. According to him, Operation Whirl Stroke will maintain aggressive operations to dismantle criminal networks and restore lasting peace across affected communities.
Major General Gara further called for sustained collaboration among security agencies and urged residents to continue supporting security efforts through timely information sharing as the military intensifies operations to curb insecurity in the region.
