Troops kill four suspected bandits and rescue kidnap victims in Benue, Taraba
Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have neutralised four suspected criminals and rescued two kidnapped victims during recent operations in Benue and Taraba states. The Acting Media Information Officer, Lt Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, detailed these actions in a statement. The operations also led to the recovery of weapons, cash, and the dismantling of a suspected drug trafficking network. Major General Moses Gara commended the troops and urged communities to support security efforts.
What happened
- Operations were conducted across Benue and Taraba states between May 24 and 31, 2026.
- On May 24, troops responded to incidents on the Gbajimba–Agasha Road in Benue and the Rafin Kada–Donga Road in Taraba, rescuing injured residents and neutralising two armed robbers.
- On May 25, troops intercepted suspected kidnappers along the Antegh–Zongo Road in Makurdi, rescuing two victims and arresting one suspect.
- A search in Makurdi on May 23 led to the recovery of 641 pieces of suspected illicit drugs and N781,000 in cash.
- On May 27, three suspected drug peddlers were arrested, and on May 31, two bandits were neutralised in Katsina-Ala, Benue State.
