Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke Joint Task Force have neutralised two suspected armed bandits along the Naka–Makurdi road in Benue State.
The incident occurred on Monday, January 26, after the bandits reportedly stormed the highway, prompting residents of Ahume in Gwer West Local Government Area to send distress calls to the troops. The Joint Task Force responded swiftly, engaging the suspects in a gun duel.
Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, confirmed that three suspected bandits were sighted during the operation. Two were killed, while the third escaped with a gunshot wound. An AK-47 rifle loaded with six rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition was recovered at the scene.
“The troops, deployed at Naka, acted on credible intelligence regarding armed bandits operating in the area. They tactically laid an ambush along the identified route and successfully neutralised the criminals,” Zubairu said.
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He added that troops continue to carry out aggressive patrols in the area to deny criminal elements freedom of action. Major General Moses Gara, Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, commended the troops for their professionalism and stressed that the operation reflects the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations.
The Naka–Makurdi road, previously notorious for kidnapping and attacks by armed bandits, has seen improved security following the deployment of additional troops, allowing motorists to resume use of the highway. The Joint Task Force reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operations to ensure security across the region.