Abuja – Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, have dealt a major blow to terrorists operating in Benue State, killing two suspected terrorists, rescuing three kidnapped victims and recovering a cache of weapons and ammunition during a coordinated offensive operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.
The intelligence-led operation, conducted in collaboration with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, began at about 3:00 a.m. on July 16 and ended on July 17, 2026.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the troops advanced through Takum in Taraba State to Tse Togo and Utenge communities across River Yooyo at Orter Camp, where the suspected terrorists had established a hideout.
On reaching the camp, the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, neutralising two of the suspects. The operation also led to the rescue of three kidnapped 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.
The military disclosed that several other captives escaped from the camp during the exchange of gunfire.
During the operation, troops recovered 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, the Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised their resilience, courage and professionalism in executing the mission.
He reiterated the task force’s commitment to eliminating terrorists and other criminal elements within the joint operations area, while expressing appreciation to sister security agencies and local communities for their sustained support and cooperation.
