Troops from Operation Whirl Stroke successfully neutralized a suspected terrorist and seized multiple weapons during a raid conducted in the Katsina- Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
On Thursday, Ahmad Zubairu, the Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, revealed that the operation was launched following reliable intelligence concerning the movements of suspected militants in Kumeh Village.
“The raid took place on 9 February 2026 after we received credible information about terrorist activities at Kumeh Village in Katsina-Ala LGA,” Zubairu stated.
Upon their arrival, the troops encountered the terrorists, resulting in a significant firefight that led to the neutralization of one militant, while others managed to escape.
The troops proceeded to dismantle the identified hideout and confiscated items including one G3 rifle, a G3 magazine, one AK-47 magazine, 12 rounds of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition, and six rounds of 7.62mm x 39 ammunition, along with a vehicular radio and a camouflage vest.
A thorough search of the surrounding area yielded no additional threats, Zubairu added.
The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Moses Gara, stated that the operation disrupted the armed group's activities in the area.
Gara praised the troops for their bravery, dedication, and professionalism, noting that personnel involved in the operation would be put forward for commendation.
He also recognized the support of local communities whose information was vital for the success of this operation.
This raid follows a series of security measures being taken in Benue State. On 15 February, the Benue State Police Command reported the rescue of nine worshippers who had been abducted during a vigil at St John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Ado Local Government Area, leading to the arrest of four suspects linked to that incident.
In recent events, on 18 February, six travelers were abducted near Kula Village along the Naka–Makurdi road, with kidnappers demanding a ransom of N100 million. Earlier, 14 passengers were also kidnapped along the Okpokwu axis, while armed men perpetrated violent attacks in regions of Kwande Local Government Area.
The renewed military actions in Katsina-Ala are part of broader efforts by security agencies to combat armed conflict and kidnapping within the state.
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