Troops under Operation WHIRL STROKE have neutralised two suspected terrorists and recovered an automatic rifle during a security operation in Amafu Iwer area of Benue State, military authorities have confirmed.
The operation, carried out by Sector 1 troops, took place along the Katsina-Ala–Zaki Biam Road as part of what the military described as a combined confidence-building and fighting patrol aimed at flushing out criminal elements from the state. The action followed what officials said was credible intelligence supplied by local residents regarding the movement of suspected bandits in the area.
According to the Acting Media Information Officer of the operation, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the troops swiftly mobilised to the identified location in collaboration with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard. On arrival, they made contact with the suspected terrorists, leading to a firefight.
“In the ensuing engagement, two of the terrorists were neutralised, while others fled into the surrounding bush with possible gunshot wounds,” the statement said. Troops subsequently combed 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 suspects.
The Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for what he described as their gallantry and professionalism. He said their “proactive posture and commitment to duty continue to yield positive results in the fight against terrorism and banditry.”
Gara also praised members of the local community for providing actionable intelligence that led to the operation’s success, noting that cooperation between civilians and security agencies remains crucial. He encouraged residents to sustain their collaboration with the military and other security outfits, assuring them of the armed forces’ resolve to safeguard lives and property.
The Force Commander further urged troops to maintain strong synergy with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders within the Joint Operations Area, stressing that collective efforts are essential to achieving lasting peace and stability across Benue State and its environs.
Operation WHIRL STROKE, a joint military task force, has intensified operations in recent months amid ongoing security challenges in parts of Benue and neighbouring states, as authorities continue efforts to curb banditry and terrorism in the region.
