Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have reportedly neutralized 20 suspected terrorists during a coordinated raid in Benue State, in a major operation aimed at curbing insecurity in the region.
According to security sources, the operation was carried out following credible intelligence about the activities of armed criminal elements operating within parts of the state. The troops stormed the hideout of the suspects, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
During the confrontation, 20 of the suspected terrorists were killed, while others reportedly fled the scene with gunshot wounds.
After the operation, the soldiers conducted a thorough search of the area and recovered several items believed to have been used by the criminal group. Among the items recovered were one AK-47 rifle, 82 SIM cards, multiple ATM cards, and other materials suspected to be linked to their operations.
Security officials believe the large number of SIM cards may have been used for communication and coordination of criminal activities, including kidnappings and attacks within the region.
Operation Whirl Stroke, a joint military task force operating in Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba states, has intensified operations in recent weeks as part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian military to dismantle terrorist and bandit networks troubling communities in the North-Central region.
Authorities have assured residents that operations will continue as security forces work to restore peace and prevent further attacks in affected communities.
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