Troops Repel Armed Attack in Benue, Recover Two AK-47 Rifles, Eight Calves
By Chibuzo Obidike | IchieTimes
Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have repelled an attack by suspected armed criminals and recovered two AK-47 rifles and other items during an intelligence led operation in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
The operation, conducted on October 26, 2026, followed intelligence reports that suspected criminals posing as herders had crossed from Nasarawa State into Guma LGA.
According to the task force, the troops came under gunfire upon reaching the reported location but responded effectively, forcing the armed group to flee. No casualty was recorded among the troops.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, four empty magazines, eight calves, three mobile phones, a National Identification Number document belonging to one Umar Yusuf and the sum of ₦20.
The Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE and General Officer Commanding 5 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Kolo Gara, commended the troops for their vigilance, swift response and recovery of the items.
Gara urged the troops to strengthen cooperation with local communities and sustain intelligence led operations to prevent criminal activities and improve security across the joint operations area.
He also appreciated members of the public for providing credible information and expressed gratitude for the confidence they continue to place in the troops.
The force commander urged residents to promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security agencies, stressing the importance of public cooperation in tackling insecurity.
The statement was signed by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer at the headquarters of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE.
