Troops raid notorious bandit syndicate in Benue, recover weapons

Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, have successfully dislodged a notorious terrorist syndicate operating in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, recovering a cache of weapons and ammunition during a raid.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Media Information Officer of the operation, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the troops acted on credible intelligence regarding the activities of a criminal kingpin and his associates, who were reportedly hiding in Mtan Village, Utange Council Ward.

“Acting swiftly on the information, the troops advanced to the location and made contact with the armed terrorists. A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, forcing the criminals to flee their enclave,” the statement said.

During the operation, Zubairu noted that soldiers recovered two motorcycles believed to belong to the bandit leader, eight magazines, 162 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition, 10 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammunition, 44 rounds of 9mm ammunition, links of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and seven empty 7.62mm NATO cartridge casings.

“Additionally, a red Toyota vehicle discovered at the scene was demobilized to prevent its further use for criminal activities,” the statement added.

Force Commander of JTF Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the intelligence team for providing timely information that enabled the successful raid.

He also praised the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and tactical dexterity.

He reiterated the importance of sustained collaboration between security forces and local communities, urging the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies.

“Timely intelligence remains a critical factor in curbing terrorism and other forms of criminality within the region,” Gara said.

The operation comes amid renewed momentum in the operation, which has seen recent successes, including the neutralisation of armed bandits, arrests of suspects, and recovery of illegal arms in various locations across the theatre.