Troops under Operation WHIRL STROKE have achieved significant success after rescuing a kidnapped victim and arresting two suspects during coordinated operations across parts of Benue State.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer of the Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lt. Zubairu Ahmad.
He explained that troops deployed from Tor-Donga, working alongside operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, carried out a raid on a suspected criminal hideout in Tse-Ubena village, located in Yooyo Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.
During the operation, a 28-year-old kidnap victim, Mrs. Member Ityavber, was successfully freed.
Ahmad said, “Troops deployed from Tor-Donga, in conjunction with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, conducted a coordinated operation on a suspected hideout, leading to the rescue of one kidnapped victim.”
He noted that the rescued victim has been debriefed, reunited with her family, and is currently receiving care, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the criminal gang.
In a related development, troops conducted intelligence-driven clearance operations on March 24, 2026, targeting suspected armed herders in Mbapa and Mbabuande communities in Gwer West Local Government Area.
According to the statement, troops from Sector 1, deployed from Bilawa-Jor and Naka, quickly responded following credible intelligence. “On arrival, the troops conducted a thorough search and discovered an abandoned suspected criminal hideout.”
He added that sustained operations, including follow-up actions across River Akpako, resulted in the arrest of two suspects, “who are currently in custody undergoing investigation.”
Commending the troops, the Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised their professionalism and swift response.
Gara said, “We remain committed to ensuring a secure environment for residents, particularly as communities prepare for the farming season.”
He reassured residents of the Joint Task Force’s determination to continue operations aimed at restoring peace and stability across the state.
