TROOPS KILL TWO TERRORISTS, RESCUE THREE KIDNAP VICTIMS IN BENUE

TROOPS KILL TWO TERRORISTS, RESCUE THREE KIDNAP VICTIMS IN BENUE

Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, in collaboration with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, have killed two suspected terrorists, rescued three kidnapped victims and recovered a cache of weapons and ammunition during an intelligence-led operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

According to the Acting Media and Information Officer, Headquarters Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the troops advanced through Takum in Taraba State to Tse Togo and Utenge communities across River Yooyo at Orter Camp, where suspected terrorists were operating.

The statement said the troops engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle, resulting in the death of two suspected terrorists, while others fled the area.

During the operation, three abducted victims were rescued. They were identified as Mr. Nyityo Abraham, a teacher; Mr. Uzuegwu Chukwuemeka Decency, a spare parts dealer; and Mr. Terhember Tavarshima, a farmer, all from Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.

Security operatives also recovered one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle fitted with an optic sight, one pistol, 19 AK-47 magazines, 181 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 40 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition, nine rounds of 7.62mm Tavor ammunition and a Moniepoint Point-of-Sale (POS) device.

Other items recovered included two pairs of desert camouflage uniforms and two pairs of woodland camouflage uniforms.

Commending the troops for their bravery and professionalism, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised their resilience and commitment to ongoing operations against criminal elements.

Major General Gara reaffirmed the determination of the Joint Task Force to rid the operational area of terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups.

He also appreciated sister security agencies and local communities for their continued support, cooperation and intelligence sharing, which he described as critical to the success of security operations in the region.