Nigerian Army rescues kidnap victim in Benue, recover arms and ammunition

Tuesday, September 23, 2025 - Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have once again recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against armed banditry and kidnapping in Benue State, following a successful operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area that led to the rescue of a kidnap victim and recovery of weapons.

Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, September 21, 2025. 

According to the statement, troops deployed in Katsina-Ala LGA received credible intelligence about the activities of armed bandits suspected to be behind kidnapping incidents around Agera Nagu in Mbagina, Michihe Council Ward. 

Acting swiftly, the troops in conjunction with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard (BSCPG) moved to the location.

On arrival, a firefight ensued with the criminals who were overwhelmed by the firepower of the gallant soldiers. The criminals fled in disarray, abandoning their victim, Mr Teryima Torbee, a 43-year-old man, who was immediately rescued unhurt.

Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the recovery of a cache of arms which included one(1) FN rifle, five(5) magazines, and eighty-three (83) rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition. The operation has since restored calm in the community, with troops maintaining aggressive patrols to dominate the general area.

The Force Commander Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and swift response which ensured the safe rescue of the victim and recovery of the weapons. 

He also appreciated the cooperation of the operatives of the Civil Protection Guard and called on communities to sustain cooperation through timely information-sharing with security agencies, noting that synergy and collaboration remain key to defeating criminal gangs and restoring lasting peace. 

He further reaffirmed the commitment of Operation WHIRL STROKE to continue its relentless operations to rid Benue and adjoining states of criminal elements.