The troops drove the armed shepherd, revealing a hidden weapon in a benue operation

In renewed strong actions of criminal elements that threaten peace in the state of Benue, the Whirl Stroke (OPWS) operating forces have found weapons and ammunition caches that escaped from the shepherds and bandits that were neutralized in separate operations throughout the state.

The permit patrol, carried out during the weekend, targets the regions famous for agricultural invasion and insecurity.

On August 2, 2025, the army from OPW invaded Tse Adudu in the GBANGA/Tongo Council Ward following the intelligence report on illegal grazing and crop destruction in Akpiti Village. When the troops advanced, the armed shepherd reportedly left their livestock and fled to the bush nearby.

The detailed sweep of the area caused the discovery of the weapons cache to be hidden in an emergency hut. Recredited items include: one AK-47 rifle, one magazine and five special ammunition rounds 7.62mm

All items are wrapped carefully in a blanket and hidden from an ordinary view.

Major General Moses Gara, Commander of the OPW generation, praised the courage and quick action of the soldiers.

“Their courage, professionalism, and rapid response to threats to rural communities are commendable,” he said.

He also gave awards to local residents who provide information that allows operations.

“We praise community members for their patriotism. Their intelligence is very important for the success of the mission.”

Also Read: Kano Women Protest Against Gang Violence by Geng Yandaba, Request Ending Attacks

Referring to the broader OPWS goals, General Gara stressed the importance of sustainable collaboration with residents.

“Our commitment remains firm – to restore peace, promote food security, and protect economic activities in the region,” he said.

In a separate operation conducted by troops from 401 Brigade Special Forces/Sector 1 OPW, a coordinated Clearance patrol in the Tatatough region in the Makurdi Regional Government resulted in the death of a bandit and the destruction of several criminal camps.

Patrol, which was carried out in collaboration with local hunters, multiplied as an escort for a mourning family towards Tse-Wayele for burial. Along the route, troops clean up several high-risk zones including Mdoor, Anter, Tse-Gegu, Tse-Aakajime, Tse-Affait, and Ndor.

In Tse-Aakajime, the army was involved in a fierce but short firing with armed bandits. One was neutralized, while the other fled from the scene with a gunshot wound, leaving weapons and supplies.

Rebredited items from the site include: two Tecno cellphones and three motorbikes

All allegedly have been used to coordinate criminal activities in the region.

The troops continued to destroy all the camps found, preventing future transfer by escaping from criminals. The presence of security has been intensified in Tatatough, with the troops to maintain foot patrols and perimeters to convince local residents and prevent further attacks.

Colonel KD Bukoye, Acting Brigade Commander and Special Sector 401 OPW, praised their people for their fortitude.

“Your courage and discipline are amazing. Stay alert and continue the momentum until we clean the state of the ben from all criminal threats,” he demanded the troops.

The latest signal of success continues the momentum in military efforts to secure the benue and restore normal conditions to the affected community.