Troops Repel Bandits in Katsina-Ala, Recover Weapons and Boost Civilian Confidence
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified operations against armed criminals in Benue State, foiling bandit activities and seizing a cache of weapons during recent missions in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area. The operations, conducted between 26 and 28 September 2025, disrupted bandit movements and further strengthened trust between residents and security forces.
On 26 September, soldiers stationed at Abaji acted on credible intelligence about suspected bandits moving through Agurugu village. The troops advanced toward Sheekan village, where they engaged the criminals, forcing them to flee under superior firepower. A search of the area led to the recovery of one automatic pistol, three 9mm rounds, thirty-three 7.62mm special ammunition, fifteen 5.56 x 45mm rounds, two AK-47 magazines, and twenty-nine mobile phones abandoned by the fleeing suspects.
Similarly, on 28 September, troops deployed at Gbise launched a fighting patrol toward Igyudu village after receiving reports of bandit activity. The sight of advancing soldiers caused the bandits to abandon their hideout and escape. A subsequent sweep of the village yielded one single-barrel gun, three rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, two AK-47 magazines, one G3 magazine, a hand grenade, a tear gas canister, assorted medical supplies, and an Itel phone.
Commending the troops, Force Commander Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, praised their swift response, resilience, and professionalism. He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal elements until peace is fully restored in Benue and neighbouring states. Gara urged locals to continue providing credible information to aid ongoing security operations, assuring them of the army’s unwavering dedication to their safety.
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