Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
BENUE, Nigeria – Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke Joint Task Force neutralise two suspected armed bandits during a security operation along the Naka–Makurdi road in Benue State.
The incident occurs on Monday after residents raise a distress call when suspected bandits attempt to attack motorists along the highway.
Acting Media Information Officer of Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, confirms the development in a statement.
“Troops conducted a snap ambush on 26 January 2026 following credible intelligence,” Zubairu says.
He explains that three suspects are sighted during the encounter.
“Two were neutralised, while the third escaped with a gunshot wound,” he adds.
Troops recover one AK-47 rifle loaded with six rounds of 7.62mm ammunition at the scene.
The Naka–Makurdi road, once notorious for kidnappings, records improved security following increased troop deployment after last year’s Yelwata massacre.
Force Commander Major General Moses Gara commends the troops, saying the success reflects effective intelligence-led operations and pledging sustained patrols to deny criminals freedom of action.
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Hussaini Ibrahim 
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