Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have taken firm action against criminal activity in Benue State by eliminating a bandit and recovering arms during a recent mission in Mararaba Gbagir.

The operation was carried out on Tuesday, July 30, 2025, after troops received credible information about the presence of armed criminals in the area. Acting swiftly, they confronted the suspects, leading to a gunfight.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, confirmed the successful operation and shared details of the encounter.

During the exchange of gunfire, one of the criminals was killed while the others managed to flee with gunshot wounds. The troops recovered six AK47 magazines, three 9mm rounds, two 7.62mm special rounds, a locally made gun, and a locally made pistol. They also destroyed charms and shrines found in the area.

Major General Moses Gara, the Force Commander of OPWS, praised the soldiers for their courage, professionalism, and accuracy during the operation. He encouraged them to keep up the momentum in their ongoing efforts to ensure peace and safety across Benue and other areas under their command.

He also reaffirmed OPWS’s commitment to protecting lives and property and called on residents to support security efforts by providing useful and timely information.