Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) deployed at Mbakyior Outpost and Agidi community recovered an AK-47 rifle with mounted magazine and live rounds during a farm patrol in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, disclosed this in a statement on
“The operation took place on 13 August 2025 when the troops, while conducting a routine farm patrol to safeguard rural communities and farmlands, approached a suspected crossing point reportedly used by armed herders at Mbakyior community,” the statement read.
Upon sighting the advancing troops, the armed herders started to flee and opened fire in an attempt to resist interception.
In a swift and coordinated response, OPWS troops returned fire forcing the hostile elements to disengage and flee the area.
During subsequent search of the scene, an AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition abandoned by the fleeing armed herders were recovered.
Security forces have maintained both day and night patrols in the area to deter further incursions, reinforce civilian confidence, and ensure the continuity of socio-economic activities without fear of attacks.
The Force Commander, OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and tactical discipline during the engagement.
He urged them to remain alert, proactive, and responsive to actionable intelligence provided by local communities.
Major General Gara reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that peace and security prevail not only in Benue State but also across all contiguous states within the OPWS Joint Operations Area.
