Troops neutralize pair of extremists, free three abducted persons in Benue state

Troops from the Sector 1 Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, have successfully neutralized two suspected terrorists and freed three kidnapped victims in a recent operation conducted in the Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

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The operation was a collaborative effort between the troops and the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, according to a statement released on Friday by the Acting Media Information Officer, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu.

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The operation commenced at approximately 3:00 a.m. on July 16 and concluded on July 17, with troops advancing from Takum in Taraba State to the Tse Togo and Utenge communities near Orter Camp, where the suspected terrorists were known to be operating.

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During the operation, a fierce gun battle ensued between the troops and the criminals, resulting in the neutralization of two suspected terrorists, while three abducted victims, including Mr Nyityo Abraham, a teacher, Mr Uzuegwu Chukwuemeka Decency, a spare parts dealer, and Mr Terhember Tavarshima, a farmer, all from Katsina-Ala LGA, were rescued.

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Other captives managed to flee the camp during the exchange of gunfire, as the troops recovered a significant amount of weaponry and equipment, including one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle, one pistol, and various ammunition.

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The recovered items also included 19 AK-47 magazines, 181 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 40 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition, and nine rounds of 7.62mm Tavor ammunition, as well as a Moniepoint Point-of-Sale device and camouflage uniforms.

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The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Maj. Gen. Moses Gara, praised the troops for their resilience, courage, and professionalism in carrying out the operation.

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Maj. Gen. Moses Gara reaffirmed his commitment to eliminating terrorists and other criminal elements from the Joint Operations Area, while also expressing gratitude to sister security agencies and local communities for their ongoing support and cooperation.