…General Gara Applauds Troops, Urges Public to Sustain Intelligence Support
By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified efforts to rid Benue State of armed criminal elements threatening rural peace and food security, with fresh success recorded during a daring clearance operation on Friday, August 2, 2025. The operation, which took place in Tse Adudu, Gbanga/Tongo Council Ward, led to the recovery of a cache of arms and ammunition believed to have been abandoned by fleeing criminal herdsmen.
According to a statement by the Acting Media Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the troops acted on credible and timely intelligence provided by patriotic community members who raised alarm over suspected herders grazing illegally and destroying farmland in the Akpiti village axis.
The herders reportedly abandoned their cattle and fled into surrounding bushes upon sighting the advancing troops on motorcycles. A subsequent search of the area led to the discovery of an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, all carefully wrapped in a protective blanket and concealed inside a makeshift hut.
The prompt and precise operation has been hailed as another major stride in the ongoing campaign to restore security in farming communities across Benue State, which have long suffered attacks from armed herders and other criminal groups.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism, courage, and swift action in responding to the threats posed to innocent civilians. He also praised the resilience and vigilance of law-abiding citizens who volunteered intelligence that led to the success of the operation.
“I commend our troops for their gallantry and commitment. Their actions continue to prove that the Armed Forces remain resolute in confronting every form of criminality threatening the lives and livelihoods of our people,” General Gara stated.
Reaffirming his commitment to the operational mandate of OPWS, General Gara stressed the importance of community collaboration in winning the battle against criminal elements. He said the operation’s ultimate goal is to restore lasting peace, enhance food security, and revive socio-economic activities across all affected areas in the Joint Operations Area.
“The continued synergy between our troops and the good people of Benue is essential. When citizens provide actionable tips, we are better positioned to confront and defeat these threats decisively,” he added.
