Security Forces Neutralize Two Armed Suspects on Benue Highway

Troops from Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) eliminated two suspected armed bandits during an ambush along the Naka-Makurdi road in Benue State on Monday, January 26th.

According to a statement from the operation’s Acting Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the incident occurred after troops, acting on credible intelligence, set up a snap ambush along the route. The forces made contact with three suspects, resulting in the death of two, while a third escaped with gunshot wounds.

An AK-47 rifle loaded with six rounds of ammunition was recovered from the scene.

The Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops, stating the operation demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence-driven missions. He reaffirmed the commitment of the joint task force to sustain operations for improved security in the region.

The highway, previously avoided by motorists due to kidnappings and killings, had seen improved security following increased deployments.

Local sources reported that residents of Ahume community in Gwer West Local Government Area alerted the troops to the suspected bandits’ presence on the road, prompting the swift military response.