Troops kill two suspected terrorists, recover arms in Benue operation

TTroops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, have killed two suspected terrorists during a security operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, while also recovering weapons, ammunition and other items believed to belong to the criminals.

The operation took place on March 9 during a patrol aimed at boosting public confidence and curbing the activities of armed groups in the area.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Acting Media Information Officer of the task force, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, troops acted on reliable intelligence indicating that suspected terrorists were operating around Tse-Anka community in Yooyo Council Ward.

He said the troops quickly moved to the location alongside operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard in order to confront the suspected criminals.

“Upon arrival at the scene, troops made contact with the terrorists, leading to a brief but intense firefight. During the engagement, two of the terrorists were neutralised, while several others fled with possible gunshot wounds,” the statement said.

Following the exchange of fire, security personnel carried out a search of the surrounding area.

The operation led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, five rifle magazines and 61 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. One round of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition and nine rounds of 9mm ammunition were also recovered.

“Other items recovered included a Bajaj motorcycle, eighty-two SIM cards, six ATM cards, and several charms suspected to be used by the criminals,” the statement added.

The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops and other security personnel who participated in the operation, describing their response as swift and professional.

He said the outcome showed the impact of sustained pressure being applied on criminal groups operating within the task force’s area of responsibility.

“The success recorded in the operation is a reflection of the consistent operational pressure being mounted against criminal elements across the Joint Operations Area,” he said.

Gara added that intensified patrols and intelligence-led operations had continued to produce encouraging results in the fight against terrorism and banditry.

“Sustained fighting patrols and intelligence-driven engagements have continued to yield positive results in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry.”

He also assured residents that the task force would remain committed to protecting communities and ensuring safety in the region.

“He further reassured law-abiding citizens of Operation WHIRL STROKE commitment to safeguarding lives and property,” the statement said.

The commander further emphasised the need for continued cooperation among security agencies in line with the guidance of the military high command.

“He also pledged to sustain aggressive operations to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace in the Joint Operation Area,” the statement added.