Troops Neutralise Four Criminals, Rescue Kidnap Victims, Bust Drug Syndicate in Benue, Taraba Operations
Nigeria’s ongoing security operations recorded fresh gains last week as troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) neutralised four criminals, rescued two kidnapped victims, recovered arms and dismantled a major illicit drug network across Benue and Taraba states.
The military said the successes were recorded during a series of intelligence-led operations conducted between 24 and 31 May 2026 within the Joint Operations Area.
In Taraba State, troops responding to an armed robbery incident along the Rafin Kada-Donga Road engaged the suspects in a gun battle, killing two armed robbers.
Security personnel recovered an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, ammunition and ₦39,950 from the scene.
In Benue State, troops rescued two kidnap victims along the Antegh-Zongo Road in Makurdi Local Government Area after intercepting their abductors. One suspect was arrested while the victims were safely reunited with their families.
The operation also dealt a significant blow to an illicit drug syndicate operating in Makurdi. Troops recovered 641 pieces of illicit drugs and ₦781,000 cash from a vehicle linked to the network.
A follow-up raid led to the arrest of three additional suspects, alongside the recovery of more illicit substances, a motorcycle and ₦40,000.
The suspects are to be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for prosecution.
In another operation on 31 May, troops raided a bandit hideout at Imande Igigh in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, neutralising two bandits and recovering ammunition and other items.
Meanwhile, troops also responded to reports of an armed herder attack along the Gbajimba-Agasha Road in Guma Local Government Area, where two injured residents were evacuated to a health facility for treatment. Security forces have launched a manhunt for the attackers.
Commending the troops for their efforts, the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, urged personnel to sustain the operational tempo and called on residents to continue providing credible information to security agencies.
He also warned informants aiding criminal elements to desist or face the consequences of their actions.
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