Army Strikes Terrorist Camp in Benue, neutralises 2, Recovers Weapons, Rescues 3

The Nigerian Army troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, in conjunction with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, have neutralised two suspected terrorists and rescued three kidnapped victims during a successful intelligence-led offensive operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
In a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, and posted on the Nigerian Army’s official X handle, @HQNigerianArmy, the operation commenced at about 3:00 a.m. on 16 July and concluded on 17 July 2026.
According to the statement, the troops advanced through Takum in Taraba State to Tse Togo and Utenge communities, located across River Yooyo at Orter Camp, where suspected terrorists had established a hideout.
During the operation, the troops engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle, neutralising two of the suspected terrorists.
The statement added that three abducted victims were rescued. They were identified as Mr Nyityo Abraham, a teacher; Mr Uzuegwu Chukwuemeka Decency, a spare parts dealer; and Mr Terhember Tavarshima, a farmer, all from Katsina-Ala Local Government Area. Other captives reportedly escaped from the camp during the exchange of gunfire.
Items recovered during the operation included one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle fitted with an optical sight, one pistol, 19 AK-47 magazines, 181 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 40 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition, nine rounds of 7.62mm Tavor ammunition, one Moniepoint Point-of-Sale (POS) device, two pairs of desert camouflage uniforms, and two pairs of woodland camouflage uniforms.
The statement further said the Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their resilience, courage, and professionalism.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Joint Task Force to rid the operational area of terrorists and other criminal elements. The Force Commander also expressed appreciation to sister security agencies and local communities for their continued support and cooperation in the fight against insecurity.