Soldiers from the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) successfully targeted a suspected kidnapper during an operation near the Jotar Village Quarantine Checkpoint in Benue State. The mission, confirmed on Saturday by the acting media officer, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, resulted in the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and two empty magazines.
Acting on reliable intelligence regarding criminal activity in the vicinity, troops encountered armed individuals, leading to a intense firefight. One suspect was fatally wounded during the confrontation. Official reports suggest the individual might be linked to a July 1 incident where a former Secretary to the Benue State Government was shot while traveling.
Major General Moses Gara, the Force Commander of OPWS, praised the soldiers for their professional conduct and bravery. He emphasized the necessity of persistent patrols to suppress criminal organizations. Furthermore, Gara highlighted the value of inter-agency cooperation and intelligence sharing in maintaining regional stability. The command continues to urge local residents to report suspicious activities, promising that all provided information will be handled with strict confidentiality.
