Troops kill two Armed bandits, recover AK-47 along Naka–Makurdi road

Troops of the COAS Special Intervention Battalion IX, operating under the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), have sustained operational momentum with the neutralisation of two suspected armed bandits during a snap ambush along the Naka–Ahume–Makurdi Road in Benue State.

The operation was carried out on 26 January 2026 following credible intelligence on the movement of armed bandits within the area.

Troops deployed at Naka were on routine fighting patrol when they tactically laid an ambush along the identified route and made contact with the suspects.

During the encounter, three suspected armed bandits were sighted. Two were neutralised, while the third escaped with a gunshot wound. One AK-47 rifle loaded with six rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition was recovered at the scene.

Following the engagement, troops intensified aggressive fighting patrols within the general area to further deny criminal elements freedom of action.

Commenting on the operation, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, said the success underscored the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the professionalism of the troops.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Joint Task Force to sustain the tempo of operations and continue coordinated security efforts aimed at improving safety across the Joint Operations Area.

The development was confirmed in a statement signed by Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Lieutenant and Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, dated 26 January 2026.