Troops recover arms cache in Benue clearance patrol
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have recovered a cache of arms and ammunition during a clearance patrol in Tse Adudu, Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State.
Zagazola Makama gathered that the operation, conducted on Aug. 2, followed credible intelligence reports about the activities of armed criminal herdsmen suspected of destroying farmlands in Akpiti village, Gbanga/Tongo council ward.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Joint Task Force Headquarters, the troops responded swiftly to the intelligence and advanced towards a farm settlement where herders had reportedly been grazing cattle illegally on cultivated farmland.
On sighting the soldiers, the suspects reportedly fled into the nearby bushes, abandoning their cattle.
A thorough search of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition concealed in a makeshift hut and wrapped in a protective blanket.
The Force Commander, OPWS, Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara, commended the troops for their gallantry and professionalism in confronting threats to rural communities.
He also praised residents for their patriotism and cooperation in providing actionable intelligence that led to the recovery.
Gara reaffirmed the commitment of the joint task force to restore lasting peace, enhance food security, and support socio-economic development across the operational area.
He called on members of the public to sustain their support for security agencies by volunteering timely and credible information.
