Troops of the Nigerian Army conducted a raid on a bandits’ hideout in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. The soldiers acted on intelligence about a notorious bandit leader in Mtan Village within Utange Council Ward. Sector 1 of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke led the effort.
Engagement with Suspects
Troops advanced to the location and engaged the armed suspects in a gun battle. The suspects fled after a fierce exchange of gunfire. No troops sustained injuries during the confrontation.
Recovered Items
Soldiers searched the area and recovered two motorcycles that belonged to the bandit leader. They also seized eight magazines, 162 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm special ammunition, 10 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammunition, 44 rounds of 9mm ammunition, links of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and seven empty 7.62mm NATO cartridge casings.
Official Statement
Ahmad Zubairu issued a statement on Sunday as acting media information officer at the headquarters of the Joint Task Force. Zubairu explained that the operation followed intelligence reports on the bandit leader’s activities.
He said, “During the subsequent exploitation of the area, troops recovered two motorcycles believed to belong to the notorious bandit, eight magazines, 162 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm special ammunition, 10 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammunition, 44 rounds of 9mm ammunition, links of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and seven empty 7.62mm NATO cartridge casings.”
Moreover Zubairu highlighted the troops’ success in dislodging the syndicate. He noted that the action aimed to restore peace in the region.
Impact on Security
The raid disrupted the bandits’ operations in Benue State. Authorities continued to monitor the area for further threats. Residents reported improved safety following the intervention.
OPERATION WHIRL STROKE SUSTAIN OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS AGAINST ARMED SYNDICATE IN BENUE AXIS
Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have successfully dislodged a notorious terrorist syndicate operating in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, recovering… pic.twitter.com/rn0UXpHFym— Nigerian Army (@HQNigerianArmy) February 15, 2026
