Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s Operation Whirl Stroke have successfully rescued a kidnapped woman and apprehended two suspects during intelligence‑led clearance operations in Benue State. These actions reflect a concerted effort by security forces to disrupt criminal networks, enhance public safety, and protect vulnerable rural communities in the region.
According to official reports, the operations took place on 24 March 2026 and targeted areas in Gwer West and Katsina‑Ala Local Government Areas of Benue State. They were based on credible intelligence regarding the activities of armed groups involved in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other criminal acts.
In Gwer West, troops deployed from Bilawa‑Jor and Naka bases moved on intelligence reports about suspected criminals operating in Mbapa and Mbabuande communities. During the operation, an abandoned hideout was discovered, and a follow-up clearance along River Akpako led to the arrest of two suspects. These individuals are currently in military custody as investigations continue.
In a related operation in Katsina‑Ala, troops responded to reports of a kidnapping at Tse‑Ubena village in the Yooyo Council Ward. Working alongside the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, the military successfully rescued the victim, identified as Mrs. Member Ityavber, a 28-year-old woman. She was provided with medical attention and later reunited with her family.
The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their rapid and professional response. He emphasized that these operations are part of a proactive security strategy aimed at safeguarding communities ahead of the farming and wet season when rural residents are more exposed to criminal activity.
Benue State has historically faced security challenges arising from herder-farmer conflicts, armed criminal groups, and sporadic kidnappings. Operations like these are designed to reduce threats, dismantle criminal hideouts, and enhance public confidence in the security agencies’ capacity to protect citizens.
Operation Whirl Stroke is a multi-agency initiative targeting armed herders, criminal syndicates, and other actors responsible for insecurity in Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States. The military has increasingly relied on community intelligence and collaboration with local security agencies to achieve operational success, as demonstrated in these recent actions.
In addition to the rescue and arrests, the Nigerian Army has been conducting similar coordinated operations across the North-Central region, recovering weapons, apprehending suspects, and dismantling insurgent camps. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure stability and public safety, particularly in rural areas prone to criminal activity.
Local residents and leaders have welcomed the military’s intervention, highlighting that swift action and successful rescues bring reassurance to communities long affected by insecurity. Authorities continue to urge the public to provide timely information to support security operations and maintain peace in the region.
These developments signal ongoing commitment by Nigerian security forces to strengthen law enforcement, protect citizens, and reduce the impact of criminal networks on vulnerable communities across Benue State and surrounding areas.
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