Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have neutralised four criminals and rescued two kidnapped victims in coordinated operations across Taraba and Benue states, marking a significant security achievement in the ongoing fight against banditry, armed robbery, and drug trafficking in the North Central region. The operations, which took place between May 23 and May 31, 2026, also led to the recovery of weapons, cash, and illicit drugs, as well as the dismantling of a notorious drug network.
Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer at the Headquarters Joint Task Force (JTF) for Operation WHIRL STROKE, confirmed the developments in a detailed statement. He noted that troops responded swiftly to an armed herder attack along the Gbajimba–Agasha Road in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. At the scene, they found two injured residents, who were immediately evacuated to the Primary Health Centre in Gbajimba for medical attention. A manhunt for the attackers is currently underway.
In Taraba State, on the same day, troops acted on an armed robbery alert along the Rafin Kada–Donga Road. During the engagement, two armed robbers were neutralised, and one AK-47 rifle with three magazines, ammunition, and a cash sum of N39,950 were recovered. The operation underscored the military’s commitment to securing critical road corridors and protecting civilians.
On May 25, 2026, troops intercepted a kidnapping attempt along the Antegh–Zongo Road in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State. The abductors abandoned two victims and fled, while one suspect was apprehended. The rescued individuals were safely reunited with their families, highlighting the effectiveness of rapid response mechanisms.
In a separate intelligence-led operation, troops targeted a drug syndicate in Makurdi. On May 23, 2026, they searched a recovered vehicle and seized 641 pieces of illicit drugs and N781,000 in cash. A follow-up operation on May 27 led to the arrest of three additional suspects, with more drugs, a motorcycle, and N40,000 recovered. The suspects were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further legal action.
Most recently, on May 31, 2026, troops raided a bandit enclave at Imande Igigh in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, neutralising two bandits and recovering ammunition and related items. This operation demonstrates the military’s ability to penetrate deep into insurgent hideouts.
Force Commander Major General Moses Gara commended the troops for their professionalism and urged them to maintain the momentum. The series of successful operations signal a growing capability to disrupt criminal networks and restore public confidence in the region’s security. These actions are expected to continue as part of the broader strategy to ensure lasting peace and safety across the North Central zone.
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