Troops under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified efforts to restore peace and security in Benue State, recording significant breakthroughs over the weekend.
The operations led to the recovery of arms, the neutralization of bandits, and the destruction of multiple criminal camps.
On August 2, 2025, in a high-risk patrol mission, OPWS troops stormed Tse Adudu in the Gbanga/Tongo Council Ward. The operation was triggered by credible intelligence from locals about illegal grazing and repeated farm invasions in Akpiti village. Armed herdsmen, believed responsible for these attacks, fled into nearby bushes on sighting the advancing soldiers, abandoning their weapons and cattle.
A meticulous search of the area led to the recovery of, One AK-47 rifle, One magazine
Five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
The arms were found hidden in a blanket inside a makeshift hut.
Major General Moses Gara, Force Commander of OPWS, commended the troops for their swift response and professionalism. He praised community members for their vital support, emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation between civilians and security forces to curb rural violence and boost food security.
Bandit Hideouts Dismantled in Makurdi Clearance Operation
In a separate but related mission, troops of the 401 Special Forces Brigade/Sector 1 OPWS, in collaboration with local hunters, conducted a clearance operation in the Tatough area of Makurdi LGA. The operation was part of a broader fighting patrol, including an escort for bereaved families heading to Tse-Ayele village.
Several hotspots were cleared—Mdoor, Anter, Tse-Gegu, Tse-Akaajime, Tse-Agam, and Ndor villages—culminating in a firefight at Tse-Akaajime where one bandit was killed and others fled with injuries. Items recovered from the scene included:
Two Tecno mobile phones, Three motorcycles
These were suspected to have been used for coordinating criminal activities. The troops went on to destroy all discovered bandit camps, effectively dismantling their operational bases.
Aggressive patrols are ongoing in Tatough and surrounding areas to maintain security and prevent the regrouping of criminal elements.
Colonel KD Bukoye, Acting Commander of the 401 Special Forces Brigade, applauded the troops for their courage and urged them to remain vigilant as OPWS continues its mission to rid Benue of threats to peace and stability.
