The Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE has intensified its offensive against kidnapping and armed criminality, neutralising a suspected terrorist and recovering an AK-47 rifle during a swift intelligence-led operation in Benue State.
Desk: Defence & Security
Date: Friday, 3 July 2026
Time: 12:38 AM WAT
Location: Benue State, Nigeria 🇳🇬
Author: Nokai Origin
The operational success followed a rapid response by troops to credible intelligence on planned kidnapping activities at Jotar Village near the Quarantine Checkpoint on 2 July, reflecting the Task Force's continued focus on disrupting criminal networks before attacks are executed.
A statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer Headquarters, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu said troops deployed from Kyado immediately mobilised to the location, where they made contact with the armed kidnappers, leading to a fierce exchange of fire.
Following the engagement, one suspected terrorist was neutralised, while troops recovered an AK-47 rifle and two empty magazines from the scene.
Operation WHIRL STROKE indicated that preliminary operational indicators suggest the neutralised suspect may have belonged to the gang responsible for the 1 July attack on commuters that left the former Secretary to the Benue State Government with gunshot injuries.
The latest operation underscores the Task Force's preventive operational approach aimed at denying criminal groups freedom of movement across its Joint Operations Area through timely intelligence and aggressive patrols.
Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism, urging them to sustain offensive operations against criminal elements across the theatre.
He also praised the continued collaboration among security agencies, describing intelligence sharing and inter-agency cooperation as critical to restoring lasting peace and security within the Operation WHIRL STROKE area of responsibility.
The Task Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting law-abiding citizens and encouraged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies.
🏷️ Tags: Operation Whirl Stroke, Benue State, Counter Kidnapping, Nigerian Military, Intelligence Operations, Counterterrorism, Major General Moses Gara, Defence, Zig Press
#OperationWhirlStroke #Benue #CounterKidnapping #Counterterrorism #NigerianMilitary #Defence #Security #ZigPress
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