Troops Dislodge Notorious Armed Syndicate in Benue, Recover Ammunition, Logistics
Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, have dislodged a notorious armed syndicate operating in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, recovering a cache of ammunition and other logistics items during a raid on the group’s hideout.
The operation, conducted by troops of Sector 1 under Operation WHIRL STROKE, followed credible and actionable intelligence on the activities of a suspected bandit kingpin and his associates. Intelligence sources revealed that the group had established a hideout at Mtan Village in Utange Council Ward of Katsina-Ala LGA.
Acting on the intelligence, the troops advanced to the location where they made contact with the armed criminals. A fierce exchange of gunfire reportedly ensued, forcing the suspects to abandon their enclave and flee.
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During a follow-up exploitation of the area, the troops recovered two motorcycles believed to belong to the suspected bandit leader, eight magazines, and a total of 216 rounds of assorted ammunition. The recovered ammunition included 162 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm special ammunition, 10 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammunition, and 44 rounds of 9mm ammunition. Also recovered were links of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and seven empty 7.62mm NATO cartridge casings.
A red Toyota vehicle discovered at the scene was also demobilised to prevent its further use for criminal activities.
The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the intelligence team for providing timely information that facilitated the success of the operation. He also praised the troops for their resilience, professionalism and tactical dexterity in confronting the armed elements.
The commander reiterated the need for sustained collaboration between security forces and local communities, urging residents to continue to provide credible information to security agencies. He stressed that timely intelligence remains critical to curbing terrorism and other forms of criminality in the region.
Operation WHIRL STROKE is one of the ongoing security operations aimed at restoring peace and stability in parts of Benue and neighbouring states affected by armed banditry and related crimes.
By PRNigeria
