From Henry Ibya, Makurdi
Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, OPWS, have dislodged a notorious terrorist syndicate operating in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
The troops recovered a significant cache of ammunition and other logistics during the raid.
The Force Commander of OPWS, Major-General Moses Gara, in a statement, said the troops, acting on credible intelligence, raided the hideout of a bandit leader at Mtan Village in Utange Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, engaging the armed terrorists in a fierce gun battle.
The statement, signed by the Acting Media Information officer, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmed Zubairu, yesterday, revealed that the terrorists fled, leaving behind two motorcycles, eight magazines and various types of ammunition, including 7.62 x 39mm special ammunition, 7.62 x 54mm ammunition, and 9mm ammunition.
According to the statement, a red Toyota vehicle discovered at the scene was demobilised to prevent its further use for criminal activities.
He commended the intelligence team and troops for their professionalism and tactical dexterity in confronting the criminal elements.
The force commander urged members of the public to continue to provide credible information to security agencies, stressing that timely intelligence remains a critical factor in curbing terrorism and other forms of criminality within the region.
