Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have destroyed a suspected terrorist hideout and arrested five suspects during a clearance operation in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
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| Soldiers of Operation Whirl Stroke during a clearance operation in Ukum Local Government Area, Benue State. |
MAKURDI, BENUE STATE — Troops of Sector 1 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have destroyed a suspected terrorist hideout and arrested five suspects during a coordinated clearance operation in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The operation, carried out on the directive of the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, forms part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks and restore security in communities affected by violence across the state.
Military sources said troops encountered armed suspects during the operation, leading to an exchange of gunfire. While some of the suspected terrorists were reportedly neutralised, others escaped into nearby bushes with gunshot wounds.
Security operatives also recovered weapons, ammunition and other items believed to have been used by the criminal group.
According to military sources, the latest raid is part of intensified operations targeting armed groups responsible for attacks and insecurity in parts of Benue State.
Operation Whirl Stroke has continued to carry out clearance missions across communities in Ukum, Katsina-Ala and Logo local government areas, where residents have faced repeated incidents of violence in recent months.
The military said the operation was aimed at disrupting the activities of criminal elements and preventing further attacks on vulnerable communities.
Security agencies have maintained that sustained offensives remain necessary to restore peace and protect lives and property in the region.
Residents of Ukum and neighbouring local government areas have endured repeated attacks that have displaced thousands of people and disrupted farming activities.
Many communities have been forced to abandon their homes and farmlands as insecurity continues to threaten livelihoods in the state's agrarian belt.
The latest operation comes amid renewed calls for stronger security measures and increased collaboration between local communities and security agencies to address the security situation.
Military authorities have reiterated their commitment to sustaining clearance operations against criminal groups operating in Benue State and other parts of the North-Central region.
Security experts say consistent military pressure, intelligence gathering and community support will be critical to weakening armed groups and enabling displaced residents to return home safely.
As operations continue, residents are hopeful that improved security will allow farming and other economic activities to resume without fear of attacks.
Prime Brief Media will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.
The operation highlights ongoing efforts by security forces to combat banditry and armed violence in Benue State.
Security analysts believe sustained military operations are essential to protecting communities, restoring public confidence and enabling displaced residents to return to their homes and farms.
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