Troops neutralise bandit, recover arms cache in Benue raid

Troops neutralise bandit, recover arms cache in Benue raid

By James Ike

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified their offensive against criminal gangs across Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa states, killing one bandit and recovering a cache of arms during a raid on a hideout in Mbagen community, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

In a statement on Tuesday, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, said the operation was conducted on November 11 by ground troops with air support from the Air Component of the joint task force.

> “Upon arrival at the location, the troops made contact with the criminals and engaged them in a fierce firefight,” Lt. Zubairu said. “During the encounter, one of the bandits was neutralised, while the gang leader narrowly escaped.”

A search of the area led to the recovery of a substantial cache of weapons and equipment, including two AK-47 rifles, one G3 rifle, five AK-47 magazines, one G3 magazine, a 36 hand grenade, two BAOFENG radios, 162 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and one Sanya motorcycle believed to have been used in criminal operations.

Commending the troops for their bravery, Force Commander Major General Moses Gara described the raid as another significant blow to banditry in the region.

“This successful operation has disrupted the activities of criminal gangs responsible for killings, kidnappings, and other violent crimes in the area,” General Gara stated. “I commend the troops for their tactical proficiency, gallantry, and resilience.”

He reaffirmed the military’s zero tolerance for criminality, warning armed groups to lay down their weapons or face decisive action.

“Let it be clear: we will not rest until every armed criminal threatening peace and stability in Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba states is flushed out,” the commander warned. “Operation Whirl Stroke remains committed to restoring lasting peace across all affected communities.”

General Gara further urged the troops to maintain discipline, vigilance, and combat readiness while sustaining momentum against emerging threats.

“Our troops must remain focused and ready for any challenge,” he added. “We will continue aggressive operations until our objectives are fully achieved.”