By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), have averted what could have escalated into a major communal crisis following their swift intervention in a violent clash between Ugambe community in Konshisha Local Government Area and Mbaiase community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to an official statement signed by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the incident occurred on 8 October 2025, when troops responded to a distress call reporting renewed hostilities between the two neighbouring communities.
On arriving at the scene, the troops came under sporadic gunfire from armed elements dressed in black. The soldiers immediately responded with superior firepower, forcing the assailants to flee into nearby bushes.
During a subsequent mop-up operation, the troops recovered one magazine, eight rounds of 7.62x39mm special ammunition, twelve rounds of 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition, fifteen empty ammunition shells, and various charms believed to have been used by the fleeing criminals.
Unfortunately, the statement noted that three civilians lost their lives, while one person sustained injuries before the troops’ arrival. The wounded victim was promptly evacuated to the General Hospital in Aliade for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were deposited in the hospital mortuary.
The Force Commander, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops of Sector 1 for their professionalism, courage, and swift action in restoring calm and preventing the situation from degenerating further. He urged them to remain vigilant and sustain aggressive patrols across the flashpoint areas to forestall any recurrence of violence.
Major General Gara also appealed to community leaders, youth groups, and stakeholders from both localities to embrace dialogue as the most viable means of resolving disputes and fostering peaceful coexistence.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Operation WHIRL STROKE to continue working tirelessly in collaboration with security agencies, local authorities, and community leaders to combat insecurity and maintain stability across its Joint Operations Area.
The Force Commander further assured residents of Benue and neighbouring states that the troops will not relent in their efforts to ensure lasting peace, unity, and protection of lives and property in the region.
