Troops neutralize bandit, recover AK-47, ammunition in Benue

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have neutralized a bandit and recovered an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and fourteen rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition during a deliberate ambush east of Ayilamo, in Tombo Council Ward, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.

The operation, carried out on October 15, 2025, resulted in a fierce exchange of fire between troops and armed criminals.

One bandit was killed in the encounter, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

In a statement issued by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, the troops subsequently cleared the area and maintained security dominance through continuous patrols aimed at reassuring residents and preventing further attacks.

In a separate operation, troops under Sub-Sector 2, deployed at Maraba Udege in Nasarawa Local Government Area, apprehended Mr. Ramanu Elizabeth at Maraba Market for being in possession of a locally fabricated pistol.

The suspect and the weapon have been taken into custody for further investigation.

The Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and tactical efficiency, urging them to sustain the momentum of ongoing operations to ensure the protection of law-abiding citizens and the restoration of peace across operational areas.

Operation Whirl Stroke reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with community leaders and security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering, dismantle criminal networks, and strengthen peace efforts across Benue, Nasarawa, and other operational zones.