Troops Kill Suspected Bandit Linked to Attack on Ex-Benue SSG
Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have neutralised a suspected bandit believed to be linked to the recent attack on a former Secretary to the Benue State Government (SSG), recovering an AK-47 rifle during an intelligence-led anti-kidnap operation.
The operation was carried out on Thursday at Jotar Village, near the Quarantine Checkpoint, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected kidnappers in the area.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, troops deployed at Kyado mobilised to the location to prevent the criminals from carrying out their activities. On arrival, they came under fire from the armed suspects, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
The military said one suspected bandit was killed during the encounter, while troops recovered one AK-47 rifle and two empty magazines from the scene.
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According to Operation WHIRL STROKE, preliminary indicators suggest the neutralised suspect may have been among the gunmen who attacked commuters on July 1, during which the former Benue State SSG sustained a gunshot injury.
The Force Commander, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism, urging them to sustain aggressive fighting patrols to deny criminal elements freedom of action across the joint operations area.
He also praised other security agencies for their continued collaboration and intelligence sharing, describing inter-agency cooperation as critical to restoring lasting peace and security.
The operation, the military said, underscores its commitment to protecting lives and property and sustaining pressure on kidnappers and other criminal elements operating in the North Central region.
Operation WHIRL STROKE urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, assuring them that all useful intelligence would be treated confidentially and acted upon promptly.
By PRNigeria
