Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE Recover Arms Cache in Benue Clearance Operation
Benue State (Core Reporters) Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have continued to consolidate successes in the ongoing push to flush out criminal elements threatening peace in Benue State.
In another daring clearance patrol carried out on 02 August 2025, troops deployed to Tse Adudu successfully recovered a cache of arms and ammunition abandoned by fleeing armed criminal herdsmen suspected to be behind incessant farm destructions in Akpiti village, Gbanga/Tongo council ward.
The troops, acting on credible and timely intelligence provided by community members, stormed the farm settlement after reports emerged of cows being illegally grazed on farmlands, destroying crops and posing grave danger to locals. On hearing the roar of advancing motorcycles and catching a glimpse of approaching soldiers, the herders reportedly abandoned their cows and fled swiftly into nearby bushes.
The troops pushed deeper and conducted a meticulous search of the surrounding terrain where one (1) AK-47 rifle, one (1) magazine and five (5) rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition carefully wrapped in a protective blanket and hidden in a makeshift hut was recovered.
The Force Commander Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, applauded the troops for their resilience, gallantry and professional response to confront threats to rural dwellers. He particularly commended law abiding citizens for showing patriotism by volunteering helpful intelligence that led to the recovery of the weapons.
Reassuring his full commitment to the mandate of Operation Whirl Stroke in restoring lasting peace, enhancing food security and socio-economic activities across the Joint Operations Area. General Gara encouraged the public not to relent in supporting security forces with actionable tips. He emphasized that only with continued synergy between troops and citizens will criminal activities be crushed.
