On 26 October 2026, soldiers from the Maritime Component of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE engaged a group of suspected armed herders in the Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, repelling the attack and retrieving a cache of weapons and other items while sustaining no injuries.
What triggered the operation?
Intelligence gathered earlier indicated that a criminal cell masquerading as herders had crossed the border from Nasarawa State into Guma LGA. Lieutenant Ahamdu Zubairu, the media information officer for the task force, confirmed that the operation was fully intelligence‑led.
How did the encounter unfold?
Upon reaching the suspected hide‑out, the troops came under fire. They responded swiftly, driving the assailants to retreat. No soldier was wounded, and the hostile group fled the scene.
What items were recovered?
The security personnel seized two functional AK‑47 rifles, four empty AK‑47 magazines, eight calves, three mobile phones, a National Identification Number (NIN) document belonging to a Mr. Umar Yusuf, and a sum of ₦20.
Who praised the troops?
The operation’s commander, Major General Moses Kolo Gara, who also serves as the General Officer Commanding 5 Division of the Nigerian Army, commended the soldiers for their vigilance and effective response. He urged continued cooperation with local communities and emphasized the importance of intelligence‑driven missions to curb criminal activity across the Joint Operations Area.
What are the next steps?
The task force plans to deepen its engagement with residents of Guma LGA, enhancing information sharing and rapid response capabilities to prevent future incursions by armed groups.
The successful repulsion of the armed herders and the recovery of firearms underscore the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where clashes between pastoralists and farming communities have persisted for years. Authorities continue to rely on coordinated military actions and community intelligence to mitigate the threat.
Overall, the incident demonstrates the effectiveness of proactive, intelligence‑based operations in safeguarding lives and property in volatile regions of the country.