By Peter Duru

Makurdi—Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have intensified their onslaught against criminal gangs across Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa states, neutralising one armed bandit and recovering a cache of weapons in a fierce encounter at Mbagen community, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

According to a statement by the acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the operation took place on Tuesday when ground troops, backed by the Air Component of the operation, launched a snap raid on the hideout of a notorious bandit.

He explained that upon arrival, the troops came under fire from the criminals, sparking a fierce firefight that led to the death of one bandit, while the gang leader narrowly escaped. A subsequent search of the area, the statement said led to the recovery of a significant cache of arms.

and ammunition, including two AK-47 rifles, one G3 rifle, five AK-47 magazines, one G3 magazine, a 36 hand grenade, two BAOFENG radios, 162 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and one Sanya motorcycle believed to have been used for criminal operations.

The Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their gallantry, tactical proficiency, and resilience during the operation.