Operation WHIRL STROKE says the pre-dawn raid in Katsina-Ala LGA also led to the recovery of arms, ammunition and military uniforms.
Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, have killed two suspected terrorists and rescued three kidnapped victims during a clearance operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, took place between 3:00 a.m. on July 16 and July 17, according to a statement on Friday by the Acting Media Information Officer of the force, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu.
The troops, according to The Punch, reportedly advanced through Takum in Taraba State to Tse Togo and Utenge communities, across the River Yooyo at Orter Camp, where the suspected terrorists were said to be operating.
A fierce gun battle ensued, leading to the neutralisation of two of the criminals. Three abducted persons — Nyityo Abraham, a teacher; Uzuegwu Chukwuemeka Decency, a spare parts dealer; and Terhember Tavarshima, a farmer, all from Katsina-Ala LGA — were rescued during the operation.
The statement added that other captives fled the camp amid the exchange of fire.
Weapons and items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle fitted with an optic sight, one pistol, 19 AK-47 magazines, 181 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 40 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition, nine rounds of 7.62mm Tavor ammunition, one Moniepoint Point-of-Sale device, and two pairs each of desert and woodland camouflage uniforms.
Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Maj. Gen. Moses Gara commended the troops for their resilience, courage and professionalism.
He reaffirmed his commitment to clearing the Joint Operations Area of terrorists and other criminal elements, while also praising sister security agencies and local communities for their continued support and cooperation.
