Troops of Sector 1 Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, in collaboration with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, have neutralised two suspected terrorists, rescued three kidnapped victims and recovered a cache of weapons and ammunition during an intelligence-led offensive operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to an official signed statement by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the operation commenced at about 3:00 a.m. on 16 July and concluded on 17 July 2026.
The statement said troops advanced through Takum in Taraba State to Tse Togo and Utenge communities across River Yooyo at Orter Camp, where suspected terrorists were operating.
During the operation, troops engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle, killing two of the suspects and rescuing three abducted victims identified as Mr. Nyityo Abraham, a teacher; Mr. Uzuegwu Chukwuemeka Decency, a spare parts dealer; and Mr. Terhember Tavarshima, a farmer, all from Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
The military disclosed that other captives fled the terrorists’ camp during the exchange of gunfire.
Items recovered during the operation included one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle fitted with an optic sight, one pistol, 19 AK-47 magazines, 181 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 40 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition, nine rounds of 7.62mm Tavor ammunition, one Moniepoint Point-of-Sale (POS) device, two pairs of desert camouflage uniforms and two pairs of woodland camouflage uniforms.
Commending the troops for the successful operation, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised their resilience, courage and professionalism.
He reaffirmed his determination to rid the Joint Operations Area of terrorists and other criminal elements while appreciating sister security agencies and local communities for their continued support and cooperation.
