Troops under the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, have dismantled a feared terrorist network operating in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, seizing a significant stockpile of arms and ammunition in the process.
The development was disclosed in a statement released on Sunday by the Acting Media Information Officer of the operation, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu.
He explained that the breakthrough followed credible intelligence on the movements of a wanted gang leader and his fighters, who were said to be taking refuge in Mtan Village in Utange Council Ward
Acting swiftly on the information, the troops advanced to the location and made contact with the armed terrorists. A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, forcing the criminals to flee their enclave,” the statement said.
Zubairu further detailed that the raid led to the recovery of two motorcycles allegedly owned by the bandit kingpin, eight magazines, 162 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition, 10 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammunition, 44 rounds of 9mm ammunition, links of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, as well as seven empty 7.62mm NATO cartridge casings.
Additionally, a red Toyota vehicle discovered at the scene was demobilized to prevent its further use for criminal activities,” the statement added.
The Force Commander of JTF Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, applauded the intelligence unit for the prompt information that made the mission successful.
He equally commended the troops for demonstrating courage, discipline, and tactical efficiency during the operation.
Gara stressed the need for continued synergy between security agencies and residents, calling on members of the public to keep sharing useful and actionable intelligence.
“Timely intelligence remains a critical factor in curbing terrorism and other forms of criminality within the region,” Gara said.
The latest feat adds to a string of recent achievements recorded by the operation, including the elimination of armed bandits, arrest of suspects, and seizure of illicit weapons across different parts of the theatre.
