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Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have dislodged armed herders and recovered an automatic rifle in Benue State.
The Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, disclosed in a statement on Friday that during a routine farm patrol on Wednesday at Mbakyior Outpost and Agidi Community in Gwer East Local Government Area, troops recovered an AK-47 rifle with a mounted magazine.
According to him, the rifle was found at suspected crossing point reportedly used by armed herders in Mbakyior community.
“Upon sighting the advancing troops, the armed herders started to flee and opened fire in an attempt to resist interception.
“In a swift and coordinated response, OPWS troops returned fire, forcing the hostile elements to disengage and flee the area.
“During subsequent search of the scene, an AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition abandoned by the fleeing armed herders were recovered,” he said.
The statement added that security forces have continued to patrol the area to deter further incursions, bolster civilian confidence, and ensure uninterrupted socio-economic activities.
Zubairu noted that the Force Commander, Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara, commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and tactical discipline during the engagement.
Gara urged them to remain alert, proactive, and responsive to actionable intelligence provided by local communities.
He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining peace and security not only in Benue but also in neighbouring Taraba and Nasarawa States.