SAA event in Nigeria on Wed 29th July 2026

Troops arrest 14 suspected terrorists, recover ammunition in Benue clearance operation 

By Zagazola Makama 

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested 14 suspected terrorists during a coordinated clearance operation on suspected criminal hideouts in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation commenced at about 12:01 a.m. on July 29, when troops of Sector 1, Operation Whirl Stroke, carried out raids on suspected terrorist enclaves in Ikyaior, Gbagir, Atereyange, Atombagen, Adamawa and Gborgbor communities.

The sources said the operation was aimed at flushing out armed groups and dismantling their operational bases in the area.

During the operation, troops arrested 14 suspected terrorists believed to be linked to criminal activities in the affected communities.

The troops also recovered one 12.7mm x 106mm round of ammunition and one empty 7.62mm x 51mm cartridge case, which have been taken for further analysis.

The arrested suspects are currently in military custody and are undergoing preliminary investigation to determine their level of involvement in terrorist activities and identify other members of the network.

Military sources said the clearance operation is part of sustained efforts under Operation Whirl Stroke to restore security in Benue State by dismantling terrorist enclaves, denying armed groups freedom of movement, and protecting vulnerable communities from attacks.