Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have neutralised two suspected terrorists and recovered weapons, ammunition, and other items during a successful intelligence-led operation in Tse-Anka community, Yooyo Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area in Benue State.
The operation, conducted on March 9, 2026, formed part of a confidence-building patrol designed to reassure residents and deny criminal elements freedom of movement within the area.
According to security sources, troops acted on credible intelligence indicating the presence and activities of suspected terrorists operating within the Tse-Anka community. Acting swiftly on the information, the troops mobilised to the location alongside operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard.
Upon arrival, the joint security team encountered the suspects, resulting in a brief but intense exchange of gunfire. Two of the suspected terrorists were neutralised during the confrontation, while others reportedly fled the scene with possible gunshot wounds.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, five rifle magazines, sixty-one rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one round of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition, and nine rounds of 9mm ammunition.
Security operatives also recovered additional items including a Bajaj motorcycle, eighty-two SIM cards, six ATM cards, and several charms believed to have been used by the suspects.
The Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops and collaborating security personnel for their swift action and professionalism during the operation.
He noted that the successful mission reflects the sustained operational pressure being applied against criminal elements across the Joint Operations Area, adding that continuous fighting patrols and intelligence-driven operations are producing encouraging results in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry.
Major General Gara also reassured law-abiding residents of the task force’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property. He urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
He further emphasised the importance of collaboration among security agencies, in line with directives from the military high command, while pledging that Operation WHIRL STROKE will maintain aggressive operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and restoring lasting peace across the region.
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