By Peter Duru, Makurdi
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified their offensive against criminal gangs across Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa States, neutralising one bandit and recovering a cache of weapons during a raid on Mbagen community, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to a statement by the Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the operation took place on Tuesday when ground troops, supported by the Air Component, launched a snap raid on the hideout of a notorious bandit.
Zubairu said the troops came under heavy fire upon arrival, sparking a fierce gunfight that left one bandit dead while the gang leader escaped with gunshot wounds.
A search of the hideout led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, one G3 rifle, five AK-47 magazines, one G3 magazine, a 36 hand grenade, two BAOFENG radios, 162 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and one Sanya motorcycle believed to have been used for criminal activities.
The Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their gallantry and tactical efficiency, noting that the successful operation had disrupted the activities of criminal gangs responsible for killings, kidnappings, and other violent crimes in the area.
Gara reiterated the operation’s zero tolerance for criminality, warning armed groups in Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States to surrender or face decisive military action.
He also charged the troops to remain disciplined and combat-ready, assuring that Operation Whirl Stroke would sustain aggressive operations until all criminal elements are flushed out of the region.
The post Troops neutralise bandit, recover arms cache in Benue raid appeared first on Vanguard News.
