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Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation WHIRL STROKE have rescued a kidnapped woman and arrested two suspects following a series of intelligence-led operations across Benue State on Tuesday, 24 March 2026.
The operations, conducted simultaneously across Gwer West and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas, mark a significant security advance in a region long troubled by armed herder violence and criminal activity.
In Gwer West LGA, troops deployed from Bilawa-Jor and Naka bases moved on credible intelligence pointing to armed herders operating within the Mbapa and Mbabuande communities.
A search of the area uncovered an abandoned criminal hideout, and a follow-up sweep along the River Akpako led to the arrest of two suspects, who are currently in custody and being questioned by security authorities.
In a separate but related operation on the same day, troops responded to a kidnapping report at Tse-Ubena village in Yooyo Council Ward, Katsina-Ala LGA. Deploying from the Tor-Donga base and working alongside operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, troops raided a suspected hideout and successfully rescued Mrs.
Member Ityavber, 28, who has since been reunited with her family following a security debrief and is receiving care.
The search for other members of the criminal network responsible for her abduction is ongoing.
Force Commander Major General Moses Gara praised the troops for their swift response and professional conduct, reaffirming the JTF’s commitment to protecting civilian communities particularly as the farming season approaches and rural populations become more exposed in the open fields.
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