Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have neutralised two suspected terrorists and recovered arms, ammunition, and other items during an intelligence-led operation in Tse-Anka community, Yooyo Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area in Benue State.
The operation was carried out on 9 March 2026 during a confidence-building patrol aimed at reassuring residents and denying criminal elements freedom of movement within the area.
According to security sources, troops received credible intelligence on the activities of suspected terrorists operating within Tse-Anka community.
Acting promptly on the information, troops mobilised to the location alongside operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard.
Upon arrival, the joint security team encountered the suspected terrorists, leading to a brief but intense firefight. Two of the suspects were neutralised during the engagement, while others reportedly fled the area with possible gunshot wounds.
A search of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, five rifle magazines, sixty-one rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one round of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition, and nine rounds of 9mm ammunition.
Other items recovered include a Bajaj motorcycle, eighty-two SIM cards, six ATM cards, and several charms suspected to have been used by the criminals.
The Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops and collaborating security operatives for their swift response and professionalism during the operation.
He noted that the success of the mission reflects the sustained operational pressure being mounted against criminal elements across the Joint Operations Area, adding that continuous fighting patrols and intelligence-driven operations are yielding positive results in the fight against terrorism and banditry.
Major General Gara further reassured law-abiding residents of the commitment of Operation WHIRL STROKE to protecting lives and property.
He also encouraged continued collaboration among security agencies in line with directives from the military high command, while pledging to sustain aggressive operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and restoring lasting peace in the region.
