Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have made significant progress in improving security in Benue State, recovering weapons and dismantling criminal hideouts. In an operation on August 2, 2025, troops raided Tse Adudu in the Gbanga/Tongo Council Ward and recovered an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and five rounds of ammunition left behind by fleeing armed herdsmen.
The operation followed credible information from local residents who reported illegal grazing and threats to farmers in Akpiti village. As troops approached, the armed herdsmen abandoned their cattle and fled into the bushes. The recovered weapons were found hidden in a blanket inside a makeshift hut.
Major General Moses Gara, Commander of OPWS, praised the soldiers for their swift action and the community for their cooperation. He reaffirmed the force’s dedication to restoring peace, boosting food security, and supporting local economic activities, while encouraging continued community support.
In a separate operation, troops of the 401 Special Forces Brigade, supported by local hunters, carried out a clearance patrol in the Tatough area of Makurdi LGA. They encountered bandits at Tse-Akaajime, resulting in the death of one and the retreat of others with injuries. Three motorcycles and two mobile phones believed to be used for criminal activities were recovered.
The troops also destroyed several bandit camps to prevent regrouping and continued to patrol the area. Colonel KD Bukoye commended the troops for their bravery and urged them to stay alert in the mission to eliminate criminal threats from Benue State.
