Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke, working alongside personnel of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, have successfully thwarted a planned terrorist assault in Benue State, killing two suspected attackers and recovering weapons during a security operation.
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‎According to a statement released on Sunday by the Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, the incident occurred during routine patrols around the Tor Donga Yam Market when soldiers received a distress alert about suspicious activity in the area.
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‎The troops, upon arriving at the scene, engaged the armed men in a gunfight and overpowered them. Two suspects, identified as Dantaraba and Golozo, were confirmed dead during the exchange.
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‎Following the operation, the soldiers recovered an AK-47 rifle, a magazine for the weapon, a damaged pistol, a pistol magazine, and several rounds of ammunition, including 7.62mm NATO and 9mm cartridges. Other items found included ATM cards and assorted personal effects.
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‎Security authorities said the swift intervention prevented what could have been a deadly attack on traders and residents, ensuring that business activities at the Tor Donga Yam Market continued without disruption.
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‎The Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Maj. Gen. Moses Gara, praised the troops for their quick response, discipline, and professionalism, noting that their actions averted possible mass casualties and protected economic activity in the area.
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‎He also commended the cooperation of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard and acknowledged the role of residents who provided timely intelligence, urging continued collaboration with security agencies.
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‎According to him, maintaining security is a shared responsibility that depends on constant support from the public as well as security stakeholders.