Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have rescued a kidnap victim and recovered arms and ammunition during a raid on criminal hideouts in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
In a statement, Acting Media Information Officer HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu said acting on credible intelligence, troops, in collaboration with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard (BSCPG), launched an operation around Agera Nagu in Mbagina, Michihe Council Ward. On arrival, they engaged armed bandits suspected to be behind a string of kidnappings in the area.
The criminals were overpowered in the ensuing firefight and fled, abandoning their victim, 43-year-old Mr. Teryima Torbee, who was rescued unhurt.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of one FN rifle, five magazines, and 83 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition. The operation restored calm to the community, with troops intensifying patrols to maintain security.
Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their professionalism and swift response. He also commended the cooperation of the Civil Protection Guard and urged communities to support security agencies with timely intelligence.
He reaffirmed the commitment of OPWS to sustaining its operations until criminal gangs are eliminated and lasting peace is restored across Benue and neighbouring states.
