Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified their security operations across Benue State, achieving major breakthroughs over the weekend by neutralizing armed bandits, recovering weapons, and destroying criminal camps.
On August 2, 2025, soldiers on a targeted patrol stormed Tse Adudu in Gbanga/Tongo Council Ward following intelligence that herders were grazing illegally on farmlands in Akpiti village. The troops moved swiftly to the area after reports of crop destruction and threats to local farmers. Sighting the approaching soldiers, the suspected armed herdsmen fled, abandoning their cattle and disappearing into surrounding bushes.
A detailed search uncovered one AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. The weapons had been wrapped in a blanket and hidden in a makeshift hut.
Major General Moses Gara, Force Commander of OPWS, praised the troops for their swift action and lauded local residents for providing credible intelligence that guided the operation. He assured communities that OPWS remains fully committed to restoring peace, ensuring food security, and protecting rural livelihoods across Benue State.
In a separate operation, troops from the 401 Special Forces Brigade, operating under Sector 1 OPWS, teamed up with local hunters to carry out a clearance mission in Tatough, Makurdi Local Government Area. The patrol covered several high-risk villages including Mdoor, Anter, Tse-Gegu, Tse-Akaajime, Tse-Agam, and Ndor.
During the operation, which also involved providing escort for bereaved villagers en route to Tse-Ayele for a burial, the troops engaged bandits in a brief but fierce gun battle at Tse-Akaajime. One bandit was killed, while others escaped with gunshot wounds, leaving behind their hideout.
Recovered at the scene were two Tecno phones and three motorcycles believed to have been used for criminal coordination. Troops destroyed the abandoned camps to prevent any regrouping by the fleeing suspects.
Colonel KD Bukoye, Acting Commander of the 401 Special Forces Brigade and Sector 1, commended the soldiers for their bravery and urged continued vigilance. He reaffirmed the military’s determination to flush out all criminal elements threatening peace in the state.
Troops remain on aggressive foot and perimeter patrols to secure the area and boost public confidence.
