Bandit killed as troops destroy terrorists’ camp in Benue
A suspected bandit has been reportedly killed after troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) invaded and destroyed a terrorist enclave at Kumeh village in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. The encounter occurred on Thursday, when soldiers of OPWS Sector 1, acting on credible intelligence about the presence of armed elements operating within the community, stormed […]
FILE PHOTO. Nigerian soldiers
A suspected bandit has been reportedly killed after troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) invaded and destroyed a terrorist enclave at Kumeh village in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
The encounter occurred on Thursday, when soldiers of OPWS Sector 1, acting on credible intelligence about the presence of armed elements operating within the community, stormed the hideout and engaged the suspects in a fierce gun battle.
A statement by the OPWS Acting Media Information Officer, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, noted that one bandit was neutralised during the exchange, while others fled into nearby bushes under heavy pressure from the advancing troops.
Zubairu stated that the operation led to the dismantling of the enclave believed to have served as a base for criminal activities in the area.
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He listed items recovered from the scene to include a G3 rifle, a G3 magazine, an AK-47 magazine, 12 rounds of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition and six rounds of 7.62mm x 39 ammunition.
He added that the troops also recovered a vehicular radio and a camouflage vest, stressing that a follow-up sweep of the surrounding area did not reveal further threats.
Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism, saying that the personnel who distinguished themselves during the operation would be recommended for recognition in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy of rewarding excellence.
Gara also appreciated residents of the area for providing timely information, assuring that the joint task force would sustain aggressive patrols and deepen collaboration with communities to rid the state of criminal elements and restore peace.