Troops Neutralise Two Terrorists, Rescue Three Kidnap Victims in Benue Offensive
Troops Neutralise Two Suspected Terrorists, Rescue Three Kidnap Victims in Benue Offensive
The successful mission is being viewed as another significant step in ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping across parts of North-Central Nigeria.
According to military authorities, the operation commenced at approximately 3:00 a.m. on July 16, 2026, after credible intelligence revealed the location of suspected terrorists operating around Tse Togo and Utenge communities across River Yooyo at Orter Camp in Katsina-Ala LGA. The troops advanced through Takum in Taraba State before launching the coordinated assault on the suspected criminal hideout. Upon arrival, security forces encountered armed resistance, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire between the troops and the suspected terrorists.
During the operation, troops reportedly overpowered the armed suspects, resulting in the neutralisation of two suspected terrorists. Military authorities stated that the operation disrupted the activities of the criminal group operating within the area. Although two suspects were killed during the gun battle, security agencies indicated that investigations and follow-up operations would continue to apprehend other fleeing members of the group.
One of the major successes of the operation was the rescue of three kidnapped victims, who were found in the terrorists’ camp. The rescued victims were identified as: Mr. Nyityo Abraham, a teacher, Mr. Uzuegwu Chukwuemeka Decency, a spare parts dealer, and Mr. Terhember Tavarshima, a farmer.
All three victims are residents of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. According to the military, several other captives managed to escape from the camp during the exchange of gunfire. Efforts are expected to continue to locate and ensure the safety of those who fled into nearby bushes.
Following the operation, troops recovered a significant quantity of weapons, ammunition, and other items believed to have been used by the suspected terrorists. Recovered items include: one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle fitted with an optic sight, one pistol, nineteen AK-47 magazines, one hundred and eighty-one rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, forty rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition, nine rounds of 7.62mm Tavor ammunition, one Moniepoint POS device, two pairs of desert camouflage uniforms, and two pairs of woodland camouflage uniforms.
Security analysts note that the recovery of firearms and ammunition is expected to weaken the operational capacity of the criminal group in the area.
The Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their bravery, discipline, and professionalism during the operation. He commended their resilience in carrying out the difficult mission and reiterated the military’s commitment to eliminating terrorist groups and other criminal elements operating within the Joint Operations Area.
Major General Gara also expressed appreciation to sister security agencies and members of local communities whose support and intelligence contributed to the success of the operation.
Benue State has witnessed repeated attacks by armed criminal groups, including incidents involving kidnapping, banditry, and violent assaults on rural communities. Operation WHIRL STROKE was established as a joint military operation to strengthen security across Benue and neighbouring states by targeting armed groups responsible for violent crimes.
Military authorities have continued to conduct intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling terrorist camps, rescuing kidnapped victims, and restoring peace to affected communities.
The latest operation has been welcomed by many residents who have repeatedly called for stronger security measures to protect lives and property. Community leaders have also encouraged continued collaboration between local residents and security agencies through timely intelligence sharing, describing it as a key factor in combating criminal activities.
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The successful operation by troops of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE underscores the military’s ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity in Benue State and surrounding areas.
With two suspected terrorists neutralised, three kidnapped victims rescued, and a large cache of weapons recovered, the operation represents a significant achievement in the fight against kidnapping and terrorism.
Security authorities have assured the public that operations against criminal groups will continue as efforts intensify to restore lasting peace and ensure the safety of communities across the region.
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