Operation WHIRL STROKE troops rescue five kidnap victims in Benue

Troops Rescue Five Kidnapped Victims in Benue State

KATSINA-ALA, Benue State — Soldiers from Operation WHIRL STROKE have successfully rescued five individuals kidnapped in the Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the Acting Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force, reported that the victims were freed after troops closed in on their captors, effectively limiting their escape options.

The victims include Babaji Muhammad, 40; Yamusa, 45; Annumba Obunde, 40; and Babangida Ibbi, 41, who were abducted along Tor Donga Road. Additionally, Doofan Ahula, 54, was taken from Chede–Takun Road.

In a related operation on March 13, 2026, troops acted on intelligence regarding bandit activities at Mtam Village within the Utange Council Ward of Katsina-Ala. However, the suspects fled the area after being alerted by informants prior to the troops’ arrival.

Despite the failure to apprehend bandits, soldiers conducted a thorough search of the area, recovering several items, including:

• A pair of green camouflage
• Desert combat boots
• One smoke grenade
• 107 rounds of 7.62mm x 54mm ammunition
• Three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
• Seven rounds of 9mm ammunition
• One Dane gun
• Six pistols
• Five pistol magazines
• Three FN rifle magazines
• Two motorcycles
• Various charms left behind by the criminals

Major General Moses Gara, the Force Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, praised the troops for their determination and professionalism during these operations.

He encouraged the soldiers to maintain their operational momentum to address the criminal activity threatening peace in the region. General Gara also expressed gratitude to the public for their assistance in providing actionable intelligence and urged residents to report any suspicious activities to security agencies to support ongoing efforts for lasting peace in the area.

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