Troops Neutralise Two Terrorists, Rescue Three Kidnap Victims in Benue Operation

Troops of Sector 1 Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation WHIRL STROKE, in collaboration with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, have neutralised two suspected terrorists and rescued three kidnapped victims during a coordinated offensive against criminal hideouts in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

The operation, which was intelligence-led, began at about 3:00 a.m. on July 16 and ended on July 17, 2026. Troops advanced through Takum in neighbouring Taraba State to Tse Togo and Utenge communities across River Yooyo at Orter Camp, where the suspected terrorists were reported to be operating.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the troops engaged the armed criminals in a fierce gun battle, killing two of the suspects.

The operation also led to the rescue of three kidnapped victims identified as Nyityo Abraham, a teacher, Uzuegwu Chukwuemeka Decency, a spare parts dealer and Terhember Tavarshima, a farmer. All three victims are natives of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

The military, however, disclosed that several other captives escaped from the camp during the exchange of gunfire.

A cache of weapons, ammunition and other items was recovered from the terrorists' hideout. The recovered items 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, a Moniepoint Point-of-Sale (POS) device, as well as two pairs each of desert and woodland camouflage uniforms.

Commending the troops for their courage and professionalism, the Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, reaffirmed the military's commitment to eliminating terrorists and other criminal elements operating within the Joint Operations Area.

He also expressed appreciation to sister security agencies and members of the local communities for their continued cooperation and support, describing their partnership as critical to the success of ongoing operations aimed at restoring peace and security in the region.