Military Troops engage armed herdsmen in gun battle , recover riffle in Benue 

From Attah Ede, Makurdi 

Troops of Joint Military Operation code named, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) operating in Benue State, have overpowered and dislodged armed herdsmen, recovered an automatic rifle in the State.

Acting Media Information Officer, OPWS, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu disclosed this in a statement he issued and made available to journalists in Makurdi, Friday.

Lt. Zubairu explained that the troops recovered the rifle at a suspected crossing point reportedly used by armed herders at the Mbakyior community in GwerEast LGA of the State.

According to the statement:  On Wednesday, the troops, during their routine farm patrol at Mbakyior Outpost and Agidi Community, Gwer East Local Government Area,  recovered an AK-47 rifle with a mounted magazine.

“Upon sighting the advancing troops, the armed herders took to their  heels 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 troops had continued to patrol the area to deter further incursions, reinforce civilian confidence, and facilitate the continuation of socio-economic activities in the area”.

Lt. Zubairu quoted  the Force Commander, OPWS, Maj. Gen. Moses Gara in the  statement as had commending  the security forces for their resilience, professionalism, and tactical discipline during the engagement.

While reaffirming his commitment to ensuring that peace and security prevail not only in Benue but also in Taraba and Nasarawa State, Gara  therefore enjoined the troops to remain alert, proactive, and responsive to actionable intelligence provided by local communities.