By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Sector 1 under Operation Whirl Stroke have foiled what security sources described as a terrorist attempt to disrupt peace in Amafu Iwer area of Benue State, neutralising two suspected bandits and recovering an automatic firearm during a fighting patrol.
The operation was carried out along the Katsina-Ala–Zaki Biam Road as part of sustained confidence-building and combat patrols aimed at flushing out criminal and terrorist elements from the state.
In an official signed statement, the Acting Media Information Officer at the Headquarters Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, disclosed that troops acted on credible intelligence provided by local residents. The troops swiftly mobilised to the scene in collaboration with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard.
According to the statement, upon arrival at the identified location, the troops made contact with the suspected bandits, leading to an exchange of fire. Two of the suspects were neutralised during the engagement, while others reportedly fled into the surrounding bush with possible gunshot wounds.
Following the encounter, the troops conducted an exploitation of 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 gallantry, professionalism and swift response of the troops, noting that their proactive posture continues to yield positive results in the fight against terrorism and banditry in the Joint Operations Area.
He also expressed appreciation to members of the local communities for providing timely and actionable intelligence, describing community cooperation as critical to operational success. He encouraged residents to sustain their collaboration with security agencies and assured them of the military’s unwavering resolve to safeguard lives and property.
Major General Gara further urged troops to maintain synergy with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders, stressing that collective efforts remain essential to achieving enduring security and stability across Benue State and adjoining areas.
