By ZAKAA LAZARUS
Troops of COAS Special Intervention Battalion IX under the auspices of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have recorded operational success with the neutralisation of two suspected armed bandits during a snap ambush operation conducted on 26 January 2026 along the Naka–Ahume–Makurdi Road in Benue State.
This was revealed in a statement signed by the acting media information officer, HQ JTF Operation Whirl Stroke, lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu said troops, deployed at Naka, were on routine fighting patrol while acting on credible intelligence regarding the presence of armed bandits operating within the area.
He said troops tactically laid an ambush along the identified route and made contact with the criminals. “During the encounter, three suspected armed bandits were sighted. Two were neutralised, while the third escaped with gunshot wound. Consequently, one AK-47 rifle loaded with six rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition was recovered at the scene. Following the encounter, troops have continued aggressive fighting patrols within the general area to further deny criminal elements freedom of action.
According to the statement, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended troops resilience and successes, noting that, the success reflects the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the professionalism of the troops.
He said the Commander reaffirmed the commitment of the Joint Task Force to sustain operational momentum and continue coordinated operations aimed at ensuring improved security across the Joint Operations Area.
