Benue: Troops kill two suspected terrorists, rescue three kidnap victims in Katsina-Ala

Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, have eliminated two suspected terrorists and rescued three kidnapped victims during a clearance operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

The mission was carried out in conjunction with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard between July 16 and July 17, the task force disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by its Acting Media Information Officer, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu.

According to the statement, the operation began at about 3:00 a.m. on July 16 and lasted until July 17, with troops advancing from Takum in Taraba State to Tse Togo and Utenge communities across River Yooyo at Orter Camp, where suspected terrorists had reportedly established a hideout.

“The operation saw troops advance through Takum in Taraba State to Tse Togo and Utenge communities located across River Yooyo at Orter Camp, where suspected terrorists were operating.

“During the operation, troops engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle, neutralising two of them.

Three abducted victims namely; Mr Nyityo Abraham, a teacher; Mr Uzuegwu Chukwuemeka Decency, a spare parts dealer; and Mr Terhember Tavarshima, a farmer, all from Katsina-Ala LGA were rescued,” the statement read.

The military further revealed that several other captives managed to flee the terrorists’ camp during the exchange of gunfire.

Security operatives recovered an AK-47 rifle, a G3 rifle fitted with an optic sight, a 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 machine, and two pairs each of desert and woodland camouflage uniforms.

Commending the troops after the operation, the Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Maj. Gen. Moses Gara, lauded their courage, resilience and professionalism.

“He reaffirmed his determination to rid the Joint Operations Area of terrorists and other criminal elements while also appreciating sister security agencies and local communities for their continued support and cooperation,” the statement added.