Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have intensified their efforts to clear out bandits and armed groups from their hideouts in Benue and neighbouring Taraba State. The operation, led by Colonel KO Bukoye and supported by air power, marked a major push against criminal activity in the region.
The military offensive, which took place on August 2nd and 3rd, 2025, targeted Tse-Ahur and Chito in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue. At the same time, another team blocked escape routes in Gindin Mangoro, Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State to prevent any suspects from fleeing.
The coordinated action showed strong planning and teamwork among different military sectors, allowing the operation to succeed on multiple fronts.
When troops reached the kidnappers’ hideout, they engaged in a fierce gunfight that ended with two suspects arrested. The rest of the criminals fled, leaving behind their captives and weapons.
A swift search of the area led to the rescue of 11 kidnapped victims—four women and seven men—who were given medical care and documented before being prepared to reunite with their families.
Soldiers also recovered a large quantity of arms and ammunition. This included rifles, a machine gun, smoke canisters, and hundreds of rounds of bullets. In addition, several charms believed to be used by the criminals were found.
The military then destroyed the hideout and all logistics at the scene, cutting off the criminals’ access to supplies and weakening their operations in the area.
Major General Moses Gara, who was present during the mission, praised the troops for their bravery and determination. He said the operation followed the plan laid out by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and is part of the Nigerian Armed Forces’ commitment to restore peace.
He expressed gratitude to military leaders and partners for their continued support and confirmed that ongoing cooperation among all security and intelligence agencies has been key to the recent successes.
General Gara promised that the military will keep up the pressure until peace and stability are fully restored across Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa States.
