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Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Whirl Stroke have successfully dislodged a notorious terrorist syndicate operating in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, recovering a significant cache of arms and ammunition during a coordinated raid.
The operation took place in Mtan Village, Utange Council Ward of Katsina-Ala, following credible intelligence on the activities of a criminal kingpin and his associates reportedly hiding in the area.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Acting Media Information Officer of the operation, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, said troops acted swiftly on the intelligence report and engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle.
“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 read.
During the operation, 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. A red Toyota vehicle discovered at the scene was demolished to prevent its further use for criminal activities.
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 in confronting the armed group.
General Gara reiterated the importance of sustained collaboration between security forces and local communities, urging residents 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,” he said.
The latest breakthrough comes amid renewed momentum in Operation Whirl Stroke, which has recorded recent successes, including the neutralization of armed bandits across parts of Benue State. Security agencies say efforts are ongoing to track fleeing members of the syndicate and prevent future attacks in the area.
