KatsinaTimes
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have rescued a kidnapped woman and arrested two suspects during intelligence-led clearance operations conducted on March 24, 2026, in parts of Benue State, according to military authorities.
The operations were carried out in Gwer West and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected armed groups and kidnappers, a statement issued on March 25 by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, said.
In Gwer West Local Government Area, troops from Sector 1 deployed from Bilawa-Jor and Naka to Mbapa and Mbabuande communities, where they discovered an abandoned hideout believed to have been used by suspected criminals. Further clearance operations extending across River Akpako led to the arrest of two suspects, who are currently in custody and undergoing investigation.
In a separate operation on the same day, troops responded to reports of kidnapping at Tse-Ubena village in Yooyo Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area. Soldiers deployed from Tor-Donga, working alongside operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, carried out a coordinated raid on a suspected hideout.
During the operation, a 28-year-old woman identified as Mrs Member Ityavber was rescued. Authorities said she has received medical attention and has been reunited with her family following debriefing.
The military said efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest other members of the suspected kidnapping syndicate.
The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their response and professionalism. He reiterated the task force’s commitment to maintaining security in the region, particularly as communities prepare for the upcoming farming season.
