Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have rescued a kidnapped woman and arrested two suspects during coordinated, intelligence-driven clearance operations in Benue State.
The operations, carried out on 24 March 2026, targeted criminal elements in Gwer West and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas.
Acting on credible intelligence about the presence of armed herders in Mbapa and Mbabuande communities in Gwer West, troops of Sector 1 deployed from Bilawa-Jor and Naka swiftly moved into the area.
Upon arrival, the troops conducted a thorough search and discovered an abandoned hideout believed to have been used by criminal elements. Continued operations extending to River Akpako led to the arrest of two suspects, who are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation.
In a separate operation on the same day, troops responded to reports of a kidnapping incident at Tse-Ubena village in Yooyo Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.
Personnel deployed from Tor-Donga, working in collaboration with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, carried out a coordinated raid on a suspected hideout.
During the operation, a 28-year-old victim, Mrs Member Ityavber, was successfully rescued. She has since received medical attention and was reunited with her family after undergoing debriefing.
Military authorities said efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the criminal network responsible for the abduction.
The Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Moses Gara, commended the troops for their swift response and professionalism.
He reiterated the commitment of the Joint Task Force to sustaining security in the state, especially as communities prepare for the farming season.
