Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have thwarted a suspected terrorist attack at Tor Donga Yam Market in Benue State, neutralising two suspected terrorists and recovering arms, ammunition and other items during a coordinated security operation.
The operation took place on Sunday, June 28, 2026, when troops, working in collaboration with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, responded to a distress call while conducting fighting and confidence-building patrols in the area.
According to the military, the troops encountered the suspected terrorists upon arrival and engaged them in a gun battle. Two of the suspects, identified as Dantaraba and Golozo, were killed during the exchange.
Items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, a 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 miscellaneous items.
Military authorities said the successful operation prevented what could have been a major attack on traders and residents, ensuring that commercial activities at the popular Tor Donga Yam Market continued without disruption.
Commending the troops, the Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised their professionalism, resilience and prompt response, noting that their actions averted significant civilian casualties and protected livelihoods.
He also lauded the contribution of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard to ongoing efforts to combat criminality in the state.
Major General Gara expressed appreciation to members of the public for providing timely and credible intelligence, urging residents to sustain their cooperation with security agencies.
He stressed that maintaining peace and security requires collective responsibility and assured that Operation WHIRL STROKE remains committed to safeguarding lives and property across its area of responsibility. #Securitynewsalert.com
