Troops under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified security operations across Benue State, recording significant successes over the weekend in a renewed push to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace in the region.
On August 2, 2025, troops stormed Tse Adudu in the Gbanga/Tongo Council Ward following credible intelligence from locals about repeated farm invasions and illegal grazing activities in Akpiti village. Armed herdsmen, suspected to be behind the attacks, fled on sighting the advancing troops, abandoning their weapons and cattle.
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A thorough search of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. The arms were discovered hidden inside a blanket in a makeshift hut.
Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their swift and professional response. He also praised the local community for their timely support, stressing the critical role of civilian-military collaboration in curbing rural violence and improving food security in the state.
In a related operation, troops of the 401 Special Forces Brigade/Sector 1 OPWS, in collaboration with local hunters, carried out a clearance mission in Tatough, Makurdi Local Government Area. The mission formed part of a broader fighting patrol that included an escort for bereaved families heading to Tse-Ayele village.
During the sweep, several identified hotspots—Mdoor, Anter, Tse-Gegu, Tse-Akaajime, Tse-Agam, and Ndor—were cleared. A firefight broke out in Tse-Akaajime, resulting in the death of one bandit, while others escaped with gunshot wounds. Troops recovered two Tecno mobile phones and three motorcycles, believed to have been used in coordinating criminal operations.
All discovered criminal camps in the area were destroyed to prevent their reuse.
Colonel KD Bukoye, Acting Commander of the 401 Special Forces Brigade, lauded the troops for their courage and resilience. He urged them to maintain high alertness as the operation continues to pursue its goal of eliminating threats to peace and stability across Benue State.
Aggressive patrols remain ongoing in Tatough and surrounding areas to ensure sustained security and prevent the regrouping of criminal elements.
Eight Girls Drown as Canoe Capsizes in Jigawa
A tragic incident unfolded in Jigawa State on Saturday evening as eight girls lost their lives when a canoe carrying 15 children capsized while crossing the Zangwan Maje river in Taura Local Government Area.
The accident occurred around 8:15 p.m. as the children attempted to travel from Zangwan Maje to Jijin Gunka. According to local sources, the canoe was hit by strong winds and overwhelmed by fast-moving floodwaters, causing it to overturn mid-river.
