Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have eliminated two suspected terrorists and rescued three kidnapped victims during a clearance operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
The mission, carried out in conjunction with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard between July 16 and July 17, targeted a suspected terrorists’ hideout at Orter Camp in the Tse Togo and Utenge communities across River Yooyo. The operation began around 3:00 a.m. on July 16, with troops advancing from Takum in Taraba State.
The rescued victims are Mr. Nyityo Abraham, a teacher; Mr. Uzuegwu Chukwuemeka Decency, a spare parts dealer; and Mr. Terhember Tavarshima, a farmer — all from Katsina-Ala LGA. Several other captives reportedly fled the terrorists’ camp during the exchange of gunfire.
Security operatives recovered an AK-47 rifle, a G3 rifle fitted with an optic sight, a pistol, 19 AK-47 magazines, 181 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 40 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition, nine rounds of 7.62mm Tavor ammunition, a Moniepoint Point-of-Sale machine, and two pairs each of desert and woodland camouflage uniforms.
Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Maj. Gen. Moses Gara, commended the troops for their courage, resilience, and professionalism. He reaffirmed the determination to rid the joint operations area of terrorists and other criminal elements while appreciating sister security agencies and local communities for their continued support.
