Soldiers Stop Terrorists and Seize Weapons at Benue Yam Market

Troops from Operation Whirl Stroke and the Benue State Civil Protection Guard have stopped a terrorist attack at Tor Donga Yam Market in Benue State.

The troops also killed two suspects and seized weapons and ammunition.

The Force Commander, OPWS, Moses Gara, shared this in a statement on Sunday in Makurdi. The Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, also provided details.

Mr Gara, a major general, said the troops acted quickly after getting a distress call while on patrols around the market. They were there for both fighting and building trust with the community.

He mentioned that the troops faced the attackers in a fierce gun battle. They neutralised two suspected terrorists named Dantaraba and Golozo.

Items taken from the suspects included one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, one damaged pistol, one pistol magazine, six rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, nine rounds of 9mm pistol ammunition, one ATM card, one Moniepoint ATM card, and other items.

The force commander said this successful operation kept traders and residents safe. It allowed business at the yam market to continue without any disruption.

He praised the troops for their professionalism, resilience, and quick action. He said their timely response stopped what could have led to many civilian casualties and a halt to economic activities.

Mr Gara also appreciated the Benue State Civil Protection Guard for working with the military to clear the state of criminals.

He thanked the public for giving good and timely information. He urged residents to keep supporting the security agencies.

“Security is a collective responsibility, and ongoing public support is key to restoring lasting peace across the state,” he said.