Operation WHIRL STROKE Recovers AK-47, G3 Rifle, Ammunition and Military Uniforms During Offensive Raid
Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, in collaboration with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, have neutralised two suspected terrorists and rescued three kidnapped victims during an intelligence-led offensive operation 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 operation commenced at about 3:00 a.m. on July 16 and concluded 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 intelligence indicated suspected terrorists were operating.
On reaching the location, security forces engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, resulting in the neutralisation of two suspects. The operation also led to the successful 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.
The military disclosed that several other captives escaped from the terrorists’ camp during the exchange of gunfire.
Items recovered during the operation include 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, one Moniepoint POS device, two pairs of desert camouflage uniforms and two pairs of woodland camouflage uniforms.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their courage, professionalism and resilience throughout the operation.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Operation WHIRL STROKE to sustaining offensive operations aimed at eliminating terrorists and other criminal elements within the Joint Operations Area.
Major General Gara also appreciated sister security agencies and local communities for their continued cooperation and timely intelligence, which he said remain critical to ongoing efforts to restore peace and security in the region.
