The rescued victim and one of the arrested suspects. @HQNigerianArmy/X
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have recorded significant operational gains following intelligence-driven clearance operations conducted across parts of Benue State on March 24, 2026.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, on Thursday in Makurdi.
The troops according to the statement acted on credible intelligence regarding the movement and activities of suspected armed herders within Mbapa and Mbabuande communities in Gwer West Local Government Area.
It said personnel of Sector 1, deployed from Bilawa-Jor and Naka, swiftly mobilised to the area to neutralise potential threats.
On arrival, the troops conducted a comprehensive search of the communities and discovered an abandoned hideout believed to have been used by suspected criminals. The operation was extended with further exploitation across River Akpako, where two suspects were arrested. The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation.
In a related development on the same day, troops also responded to reports of kidnapping activities at Tse-Ubena village in Yooyo Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area. Troops deployed from Tor-Donga, working alongside operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, carried out a coordinated operation on another suspected hideout.
During the operation, one kidnapped victim, Mrs Member Ityavber, aged 28, was successfully rescued.
According to the statement, “The rescued victim is currently receiving care and has be reunited with her family after a debrief. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend members of the criminal syndicate responsible for the kidnap.”
Reacting to the development, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their swift response and professionalism.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Joint Task Force to maintaining peace and stability across affected communities, particularly as residents prepare for the upcoming farming season.
The operations form part of ongoing efforts by security forces to dismantle criminal networks, curb kidnapping activities, and enhance safety across Benue and surrounding areas.
