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In a swift and successful operation, troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), in collaboration with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard (BSCPG), rescued a 43-year-old kidnap victim and recovered a cache of weapons from armed bandits in the Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued on Sunday, September 21, 2025, by Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the troops acted on credible intelligence about suspected kidnappers terrorizing residents around Agera Nagu in Mbagina, Michihe Council Ward. The operation led to a gun battle, forcing the criminals to flee and abandon their victim, Mr. Teryima Torbee, who was rescued unhurt.
A subsequent search of the area yielded one FN rifle, five magazines, and 83 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition. The statement noted that calm has since been restored, with troops maintaining aggressive patrols in the area to ensure security.
Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and swift action. He also lauded the cooperation of the Civil Protection Guard and urged communities to continue sharing timely information with security agencies. “Synergy and collaboration remain key to defeating criminal gangs and restoring lasting peace,” General Gara stated, reaffirming OPWS’s commitment to rid Benue and neighboring states of banditry and other criminal activities.
This operation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat insecurity in the region, with authorities emphasizing the importance of community support in these endeavors.
