Troops Free Kidnap Victim, Seize Weapons in Benue

Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), have rescued a kidnap victim and recovered arms following a successful raid on armed bandits in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

The Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, confirmed the operation in a statement on Sunday, September 21, 2025.

According to him, troops acting on credible intelligence about criminal activities in Agera Nagu, Mbagina, Michihe Council Ward, swiftly mobilized with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard (BSCPG) to the scene.

On arrival, they engaged the suspects in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to flee and abandon their victim, 43-year-old Mr. Teryima Torbee, who was rescued unhurt.

Recovered weapons and other items were secured as troops continue clearance operations in the area

Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the recovery of a cache of arms which included one(1) FN rifle, five(5) magazines, and eighty-three (83) rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition. The operation has since restored calm in the community, with troops maintaining aggressive patrols to dominate the general area.

The Force Commander Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and swift response which ensured the safe rescue of the victim and recovery of the weapons.

He also appreciated the cooperation of the operatives of the Civil Protection Guard and called on communities to sustain cooperation through timely information-sharing with security agencies, noting that synergy and collaboration remain key to defeating criminal gangs and restoring lasting peace.

He further reaffirmed the commitment of Operation WHIRL STROKE to continue its relentless operations to rid Benue and adjoining states of criminal elements.