Troops Neutralise Two Bandits, Recover AK-47 In Benue Ambush

Eric Patrick

Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have sustained operational momentum with the neutralisation of two suspected armed bandits during a snap ambush along the Naka–Ahume–Makurdi Road in Benue State.

In a statement by the Acting Media Information Officer HQ JTF Operation Whirl Stroke, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, on Tuesday said the operation, conducted on 26 January 2026, was carried out by troops of the COAS Special Intervention Battalion IX under the auspices of Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Whirl Stroke.

It was added that the troops deployed at Naka, were on routine fighting patrol when they acted on credible intelligence indicating the presence of armed bandits operating in the area.

According to the statement, the troops tactically laid an ambush along the identified route.

During the ensuing encounter, three suspected armed bandits were sighted, two were neutralised in the exchange, while the third reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds.

Following the encounter, troops recovered one AK-47 rifle loaded with six rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition at the scene.

The Nigerian troops have since intensified aggressive fighting patrols within the general area to further deny criminal elements freedom of action.

Commenting on the operation, the Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, said the success underscored the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the professionalism of the troops.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Joint Task Force to sustain operational momentum and continue coordinated operations aimed at improving security across the Joint Operations Area.

The military has urged residents to continue supporting security efforts by providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations.