By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
Troops of Sector 1 Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, working alongside the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, have neutralized two suspected terrorists, rescued three kidnap victims and recovered a cache of weapons and ammunition during a coordinated offensive in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to a statement by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the intelligence-led operation began at about 3:00 a.m. on July 16 and ended on July 17, 2026.
The troops advanced through Takum in Taraba State to Tse Togo and Utenge communities across River Yooyo at Orter Camp, where suspected terrorists were said to be operating.
The statement said the troops engaged the suspects in a fierce gun battle, killing two of them and successfully rescuing three abducted victims identified as Mr. Nyityo Abraham, a teacher; Mr. Uzuegwu Chukwuemeka Decency, a spare parts dealer; and Mr. Terhember Tavarshima, a farmer, all from Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
It added that several other captives escaped from the camp during the exchange of gunfire.
The operation also led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle fitted with an optic sight, one 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 (POS) device, as well as two pairs each of desert and woodland camouflage uniforms.
Commending the troops for their resilience, courage and professionalism, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to eliminating terrorists and other criminal elements within the Joint Operations Area.
He also appreciated sister security agencies and members of the local communities for their continued cooperation and support, describing their collaboration as vital to the success of ongoing operations.
