Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified efforts to rid Benue State of illicit arms and criminal elements, recovering a cache of weapons during a clearance patrol on August 2, 2025.
In a statement Acting Media Information Officer HQ JTF Operation Whirl Stroke Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu said the operation, conducted in Tse Adudu, Gbanga/Tongo council ward, followed credible intelligence from local residents about armed herders illegally grazing cattle and destroying farmlands in Akpiti village. On sighting the troops, the herders reportedly fled, abandoning their livestock.
A thorough search of the area led to the discovery of one AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition concealed in a makeshift hut.
Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and praised the cooperation of local communities in providing actionable intelligence. He reaffirmed the commitment of OPWS to restoring peace, enhancing food security, and supporting socio-economic stability in the Joint Operations Area.
General Gara urged continued collaboration between citizens and security agencies, stressing that sustained synergy is vital to defeating criminal networks in the region.
