Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have successfully rescued five kidnapped victims in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. According to Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the victims regained their freedom after troops intensified pressure on the kidnappers, forcing them to abandon the captives.

The rescued victims were identified as Babaji Muhammad, Yamusa, Annumba Obunde, Babangida Ibbi and Doofan Ahula. Security reports revealed that four of them were abducted along Tor Donga Road, while another victim was taken along the Chede–Takun Road before troops intervened.

In a separate operation, soldiers acted on intelligence about bandits operating in Mtam Village in Utange Council Ward. When troops arrived, the suspects had already fled the area, reportedly after receiving a warning from informants about the approaching security forces.

However, the troops recovered several items from the location, including weapons, ammunition, motorcycles and other materials abandoned by the criminals. The Force Commander, Moses Gara, praised the troops for their commitment and urged residents to continue sharing useful information to help security agencies maintain peace in the region.