Troops Repel Bandits in Katsina-Ala, Recover Weapons

Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have successfully foiled attempts by armed bandits to destabilise parts of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area in Benue State, recovering a cache of weapons and reinforcing local trust in the military.

The latest offensive, carried out between September 26 and 28, 2025, involved two separate operations targeting known bandit hideouts following credible intelligence.

On September 26, troops deployed at Abaji responded to reports of bandit movements in Agurugu village. Acting swiftly, the soldiers confronted the criminals at Sheekan village. Outgunned by the troops’ superior firepower, the bandits fled the area, abandoning weapons and other items.

A search of the scene led to the recovery of one automatic pistol, three rounds of 9mm ammunition, thirty-three 7.62mm special rounds, fifteen 5.56x45mm rounds, two AK-47 magazines, and twenty-nine mobile phones likely used for coordination and communication.

In a separate mission on September 28, troops from the Gbise axis conducted a fighting patrol to Igyudu village following reports of bandit activity. Once again, the criminals retreated upon seeing the advancing soldiers. A thorough sweep of the area led to the seizure of one single-barrel gun, three 7.62mm NATO rounds, two AK-47 magazines, one G3 magazine, a hand grenade, a tear gas canister, assorted medical supplies, and an Itel mobile phone.

Reacting to the success, the Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their swift and professional action. He stated that the operation reflects the effectiveness of current strategies being employed to tackle insecurity in Benue and neighbouring states.

“Our troops have shown resilience and determination. We remain committed to restoring lasting peace across the region,” he said.

General Gara also reassured residents of Katsina-Ala and the surrounding communities of their safety, urging them to continue cooperating through the timely and credible sharing of intelligence.