Troops neutralise bandit, destroy camps in Benue clearance operation
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the 401 Special Forces Brigade and Sector 1 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have neutralised a bandit and destroyed several criminal hideouts during a clearance operation around Tatough general area in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State.
The operation, carried out in collaboration with local hunters, targeted identified hotspots including Mdoor, Anter, Tse-Gegu, Tse-Akaajime, Tse-Agam, and Ndor villages.
A statement issued by the OPWS Headquarters on Sunday in Makurdi said the troops came under fire at Tse-Akaajime village, prompting a brief but intense firefight which led to the neutralisation of one bandit, while others escaped into the bush.
Items recovered from the scene included two Tecno mobile phones and three motorcycles suspected to have been used for coordinating criminal activities.
The troops subsequently destroyed all identified bandit camps within the area, denying the criminals the opportunity to regroup or re-establish presence.
The statement also disclosed that the operation was conducted alongside the escort of bereaved family members to Tse-Ayele village for burial, demonstrating the military’s support for local communities.
Meanwhile, troops deployed at Tatough have continued aggressive foot and perimeter patrols, maintaining a strong security presence to reassure residents and deter further criminal activity.
The Acting Commander, 401 Special Forces Brigade and Sector 1 OPWS, Col. K.O. Bukoye, commended the troops for their gallantry, professionalism, and commitment to duty.
He urged them to sustain the momentum in the ongoing efforts to rid Benue State of criminal elements and restore lasting peace.
