Troops of the Nigerian Army’s Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have destroyed multiple bandits’ camps in the Akwaza area of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, recovering weapons and critical items during a coordinated security raid.
According to a statement released by the Army, the operation was executed by the 72 Special Forces Battalion in collaboration with other security agencies. The camps are said to be linked to a notorious bandit leader in Konyo Gbise.
“The operation led to the capture and destruction of identified bandits’ hideouts, with the recovery of a Sub Machine Gun (SMG) with magazine, a locally fabricated rifle, and several rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition,” the statement revealed.
Weapons, POS Machines, Cannabis, and Solar Panels Seized
During the operation, troops also recovered:
- One rifle butt and barrel
- Multiple rounds of 9mm ammunition
- Three Point-of-Sale (POS) machines
- Two generators
- A mobile phone and solar panels
- Painting and electrical equipment
- A half bag of suspected cannabis sativa (Indian hemp)
- Portraits of bandit leaders
These findings, according to the military, highlight the scale and sophistication of the criminal operations disrupted in the area.
Army Urges Continued Public Support in Fight Against Insecurity
Commander of JTF OPWS, Major-General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and urged them to maintain relentless pressure on criminal elements threatening peace and security in Benue State.
“We call on residents to continue supporting military efforts by providing timely and credible intelligence on criminal activities,” Major-General Gara said.
Operation Whirl Stroke: Intensifying Counter-Banditry Operations in North Central Nigeria
Operation Whirl Stroke has been a critical component of the Nigerian Army’s counter-banditry and counter-insurgency strategy in North Central Nigeria, targeting armed groups responsible for violence, kidnappings, and other security threats in Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, and parts of Niger State.
PMNEWS
