…As Sector 1 OPWS Maintains Strong Security Presence Across Tatough Axis
By Nkechi Eze
In a decisive move to reinforce security and sustain peace across troubled parts of Benue State, troops of the 401 Special Forces Brigade and Sector 1 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), in collaboration with local hunters, have successfully carried out a clearance operation targeting bandit enclaves in the Tatough general area of Makurdi Local Government Area.
The operation, which included a combat patrol and the escort of bereaved civilians to Tse-Ayele village for burial rites, traversed several high-risk locations identified as criminal hotspots. These included Mdoor, Anter, Tse-Gegu, Tse-Akaajime, Tse-Agam, and Ndor villages.
Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations for the 401 Special Forces Brigade and Sector 1 OPWS, Captain Abdullahi Lawal Osabo, disclosed in an official statement that the troops came under fire while advancing through Tse-Akaajime village, prompting a swift engagement. A brief but fierce firefight ensued, leading to the neutralisation of one armed bandit. Others managed to flee, abandoning their hideouts and equipment.
Following the encounter, troops recovered two Tecno mobile phones and three motorcycles suspected to have been used by the fleeing criminals to coordinate illicit activities across the area. The recovered items are currently undergoing analysis for intelligence purposes.
In a follow-up phase of the operation, the troops demolished all identified bandit camps in the area, setting them ablaze to prevent any future reoccupation by the criminals. The destruction of these camps is seen as a strategic blow to the operational capabilities of the fleeing syndicates.
Troops deployed at Tatough have also sustained aggressive foot patrols and perimeter surveillance to ensure continued security presence and to reassure local communities of their safety. Residents of the surrounding villages are already reported to be returning to their daily routines with increased confidence.
Reacting to the success of the operation, the Acting Commander of the 401 Special Forces Brigade and Sector 1 OPWS, Colonel K.O. Bukoye, praised the troops for their courage, professionalism, and steadfastness in the line of duty. He urged them to remain vigilant and not to relent in the collective effort to rid Benue State of criminal elements.
“Our mission is clear, no sanctuary for bandits or any group that threatens peace in this region,” Colonel Bukoye stated. “I commend our troops and the local hunters who continue to serve as force multipliers. Together, we are restoring confidence and pushing back the enemies of peace.”
