Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Bornet .k
Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have killed two suspected terrorists and rescued three kidnapped victims during an intelligence-led operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, the military has said. The operation, carried out in collaboration with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, took place between 16 and 17 July 2026 as part of ongoing efforts to combat armed groups operating in the area.
According to the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation Whirl Stroke, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, the operation began at about 3:00 a.m. on Thursday, 16 July, and concluded on Friday, 17 July 2026. Troops advanced through Takum in Taraba State to Tse Togo and Utenge communities across the River Yooyo at Orter Camp, where intelligence indicated suspected terrorists had established a hideout.
The military said the troops engaged the suspects in a firefight, killing two of them while forcing others to flee into nearby bushes with gunshot wounds. During the operation, soldiers rescued three kidnapped victims held captive by the armed group and recovered an AK-47 rifle, a locally fabricated rifle, magazines and ammunition believed to have been used by the suspects.
Lt. Zubairu said the successful operation was made possible through credible intelligence and close coordination between the military and the Benue State Civil Protection Guard. He added that troops are continuing clearance operations in the surrounding communities to track down fleeing suspects and prevent them from regrouping.
The latest operation comes amid sustained military efforts to curb insecurity in Benue State, where armed attacks, kidnappings and violent assaults have continued to threaten rural communities. Security agencies have intensified joint operations across parts of the state in a bid to dismantle criminal hideouts and restore normalcy.
The Armed Forces urged residents to continue supporting security operations by providing timely and credible information that could assist ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities. Authorities also reassured the public of their commitment to protecting lives and property across Benue and neighbouring states.
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