Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have recorded major operational successes across Benue and Taraba states, neutralising four suspected criminals, rescuing kidnapped victims, recovering arms and ammunition, and dismantling a suspected drug trafficking network during a series of operations conducted between May 24 and May 31, 2026.

According to military authorities, the operations formed part of ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities and enhance security within the Joint Operations Area.

In Benue State, troops responded to reports of an attack by armed herders along the Gbajimba–Agasha road in Guma Local Government Area on May 24. Upon arrival, security personnel discovered two injured residents who were subsequently evacuated to a healthcare facility in Gbajimba for treatment. Efforts to apprehend those responsible for the attack are ongoing.

On the same day in Taraba State, troops acting on intelligence concerning an armed robbery incident along the Rafin Kada–Donga road engaged the suspects in a gun battle. Two of the suspected robbers were neutralised during the encounter, while security forces recovered an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, ammunition, and cash.

In a separate operation on May 25, troops responded to a kidnapping incident along the Antegh–Zongo route in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State. The kidnappers reportedly abandoned two victims and fled after sighting advancing troops. One suspect was arrested, while the rescued victims were safely reunited with their families.

The military also recorded breakthroughs in its campaign against illicit drug trafficking. During an intelligence-led operation in Makurdi, troops searched a vehicle linked to a suspected drug syndicate and recovered 641 units of suspected illicit substances alongside N781,000 in cash.

Follow-up operations conducted on May 27 led to the arrest of three additional suspects. Security personnel also recovered more suspected narcotics, a motorcycle, and cash believed to be connected to the illegal trade. The suspects are expected to be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.

In the latest operation, carried out on May 31, troops raided a suspected bandit hideout at Imande Igigh in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State following actionable intelligence. Two suspected bandits were neutralised during the raid, while ammunition and other related items were recovered from the location.

The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and operational achievements. He urged personnel to maintain the momentum in ongoing security operations and called on residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible information on criminal activities.

He also warned individuals providing assistance or intelligence to criminal groups to desist from such actions, stressing that anyone found aiding criminal elements would face the consequences of the law.