By Attah Ede
Troops of the Joint Military Operation code named, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have killed an armed bandit and recovered illegal arms during a coordinated clearance operation across several voilite communities in Benue State.
The acting Information Officer of Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, in a statement on Friday in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, said the operation was conducted on July 24, 2025.
He maintained that the operation principally targeted flashpoints including Akure, Akop-Ivaan, Iorkyol, Ugbaba, Agber, Tse Nyikwgh, and Tse Ilim.
Lt. Zubairu explained that the troops came under fire during the mission but responded decisively, neutralizing one armed bandit and destroyed three identified bandit camps.
According to the statement, one AK-47 rifle, a magazine loaded with 26 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a Tecno mobile phone, hard drugs, and N2,000 in cash were recovered during the operation.
“The camps were subsequently set ablaze, denying criminals key operational bases.
“Troops have maintained a strong presence in the area, conducting aggressive patrols and clearance operations aimed at rooting out criminal elements and restoring security.
“Displaced residents are gradually returning to their farms, signaling improved safety and confidence in the military’s operations.
“The Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, applauded the discipline and tactical precision of the troops.
“He urges the troops to sustain the momentum until peace is fully restored across Benue State”, Zubairu stated.
