Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have recovered an unexpended ordnance (UXO) during a routine security patrol in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, underscoring the persistent threat posed by explosive remnants of war in communities across Nigeria's North-Central region. Security expert Zagazola Makama disclosed the development on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, in a post on X, stating that the discovery was made at Tse Orkpen village, near Ukpiam, by troops of Sector 1 of the operation.
According to military sources cited by Makama, the troops spotted the unexploded ordnance while conducting a patrol on Saturday, 4 July 2026, at approximately 1:10 p.m. and immediately cordoned off the area to prevent any danger to residents. An Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was subsequently deployed to the location and safely recovered the device. "The recovered unexploded ordnance has been taken into military custody for further action, while security agencies continue efforts to clear operational areas of explosive remnants that could pose a threat to civilians and security personnel," Makama quoted security sources as saying.
The discovery in Tse Orkpen highlights the ongoing challenge of explosive remnants in Benue State, where decades of communal clashes, farmer-herder conflicts, and military operations have left behind unexploded munitions that continue to pose a significant risk to civilians. Unexploded ordnance, which can include anything from artillery shells to mortar rounds and grenades, remains dangerous long after it is fired or dropped, and can detonate if disturbed, often with fatal consequences. Children are particularly vulnerable, as they may mistake such devices for toys or scrap metal.
Operation Whirl Stroke is a joint task force established to address the complex security challenges in Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba states, where armed herders, militia groups, and criminal networks have fueled violence, displacement, and humanitarian suffering. The operation has been engaged in a sustained campaign to restore peace and security in the region, conducting clearance operations, patrols, and intelligence-led raids to dismantle criminal networks and recover arms and ammunition.
In recent weeks, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have recorded several significant successes. On 6 July 2026, troops killed a suspected bandit believed to be involved in the attack that led to the death of former Secretary to the Benue State Government, Professor David Salifu. On 4 July 2026, troops neutralised a suspected terrorist and recovered an AK-47 rifle during a swift anti-kidnapping operation in the state. On 28 June 2026, troops, in collaboration with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, foiled a terrorist attack on the popular Tor Donga Yam Market, neutralising two suspected attackers and recovering arms and ammunition. These operations reflect the military's intensified efforts to degrade the operational capabilities of armed groups and protect civilians.
The recovery of the UXO in Guma LGA also underscores the importance of community awareness and reporting in mitigating the risks posed by explosive remnants. Residents are often the first to encounter such devices, and their vigilance can be critical in preventing accidents. The military has repeatedly urged communities to report any suspicious objects to security agencies and to avoid handling or tampering with them.
The military has assured residents that it remains committed to clearing operational areas of explosive remnants and other threats. While the immediate danger has been neutralised, the discovery serves as a stark reminder that the scars of conflict linger long after the fighting ends, and that the work of securing communities and protecting civilians is far from over.
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