By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Maritime Component of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have repelled armed gunmen during an intelligence-led operation in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, recovering two AK-47 rifles, four empty magazines and a National Identification Number (NIN) document.
The operation, conducted on October 26, 2026, followed intelligence indicating that suspected criminals posing as herders had crossed from neighbouring Nasarawa State into Guma LGA.
According to an official statement signed by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, the troops came under gunfire from the armed group upon arriving at the identified location.
The troops responded effectively, repelled the attack and forced the gunmen to flee, with no casualty recorded among the military personnel.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, four empty AK-47 magazines, eight calves, three mobile phones, a NIN document belonging to one Umar Yusuf, and the sum of ₦20.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE and General Officer Commanding 5 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Kolo Gara, commended the troops for their vigilance, proactive response and successful recovery of the items.
Gara charged the troops to strengthen collaboration with local communities and sustain intelligence-led operations to prevent criminal activities and improve security across the Joint Operations Area.
He also appreciated members of the public for providing credible and actionable intelligence, as well as for their continued confidence in the troops.
The Force Commander urged residents to sustain their cooperation with security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious movements and activities to support ongoing efforts to combat insecurity across the area.
