Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified their offensive against criminal elements across Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa States, neutralising one armed bandit and recovering a cache of weapons during a raid in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Acting Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the operation was carried out on November 11, 2025, when ground troops, supported by the Air Component of OPWS, launched a snap raid on the hideout of a notorious bandit in Mbagen Community.
The troops reportedly engaged the criminals in a fierce gun duel, resulting in the death of one bandit, while the gang leader managed to escape. A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, one G3 rifle, five AK-47 magazines, one G3 magazine, a hand grenade, two BAOFENG radios, 162 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and a Sanya motorcycle believed to have been used for criminal activities.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their gallantry, tactical efficiency, and resilience during the clearance operations.
He said the successful raid had further disrupted the operations of criminal gangs responsible for killings, kidnappings, and other violent crimes in the region.
Major General Gara reiterated the Task Force’s zero-tolerance policy toward criminality, warning bandits and other armed groups operating within Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States to surrender or face decisive military action.
He further urged troops to maintain discipline, remain combat-ready, and continue prioritising in-theatre training to effectively tackle emerging security challenges.
The Force Commander assured that Operation Whirl Stroke would sustain aggressive operations until all criminal elements threatening peace and stability are completely eliminated from the region.