Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have killed a suspected kidnapper and recovered an AK-47 rifle during a security operation in Jotar Village, near the Quarantine Checkpoint in Benue State. The incident occurred on Saturday following credible intelligence about the presence of armed criminals in the area. The operation was conducted to disrupt ongoing criminal activities, particularly kidnappings and attacks on travelers along the route.
According to Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, the troops engaged the suspects in a fierce gun battle upon arrival. One of the armed men was killed during the exchange, while security forces seized one AK-47 rifle and two empty magazines. Zubairu emphasized that the operation was carried out based on reliable intelligence, underscoring the importance of timely information in combating insecurity.
Preliminary investigations suggest the deceased may have been part of the gang responsible for the attack on commuters on July 1, during which a former Secretary to the Benue State Government sustained gunshot injuries. This connection highlights the persistent threat posed by armed criminal elements in the region and the need for sustained security operations.
Major General Moses Gara, the Force Commander of OPWS, commended the troops for their courage, resilience, and professionalism. He urged them to maintain aggressive patrols and continue applying pressure on criminal networks operating within the joint operations area. Gara also praised the cooperation among security agencies, stressing that intelligence sharing and inter-agency collaboration are essential to restoring peace and security.
He reaffirmed OPWS’ commitment to protecting lives and property across the region. Gara called on residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, assuring them that all intelligence would be handled confidentially and acted upon swiftly. The military’s efforts remain focused on dismantling criminal networks and ensuring safe passage for travelers and residents.
This latest development comes amid ongoing security challenges in Benue State, where armed bandits and kidnappers have increasingly targeted highways and rural communities. The successful operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the determination of security forces to curb violence. As OPWS continues its mission, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and support security efforts through active participation and information sharing.
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