Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have repelled armed herders and recovered a cache of weapons during a farm patrol in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
The operation, conducted on August 13, 2025, unfolded in Mbakyior community when OPWS personnel deployed at Mbakyior Outpost and Agidi community advanced toward a suspected crossing point allegedly used by armed herders.
According to the Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, the suspects opened fire immediately upon sighting the troops in an attempt to resist interception. The soldiers swiftly returned fire, forcing the assailants to retreat into nearby bushes.
A subsequent sweep of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, a mounted magazine, and three live rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition abandoned by the fleeing suspects.
Following the encounter, security forces intensified both day and night patrols to prevent further incursions, boost public confidence, and protect ongoing farming activities in the region.
Commending the soldiers for their professionalism and tactical discipline, the Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, urged them to maintain a high level of vigilance and continue collaborating with local communities to sustain peace and security across the joint operations area.
