Benue: Troops neutralise suspected terrorist, recover arms in Katsina-Ala raid
News Benue: Troops neutralise suspected terrorist, recover arms in Katsina-Ala raid Published on February 20, 2026 By Winner James googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1500386953281-8'); }); Personnel of Operation Whirl Stroke have eliminated a suspected militant and seized weapons during a clearance mission in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Ahmad Zubairu. He explained that the action was prompted by intelligence reports about the presence of suspected fighters operating from Kumeh Village. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1524595905268-5'); }); “The operation was conducted on 9 February 2026 after credible intelligence was received regarding the activities of suspected terrorists at Kumeh Village in Katsina-Ala LGA,” Mr Zubairu said. “Upon arrival, troops made contact with the terrorists, leading to a fierce firefight during which one terrorist was neutralised while others fled.” According to him, the troops overran and dismantled the hideout identified during the raid. Items recovered at the scene included one G3 rifle, a G3 magazine, an AK-47 magazine, 12 rounds of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition, and six rounds of 7.62mm x 39 ammunition. Security operatives also retrieved a vehicular radio set and a camouflage vest from the location. He added that a sweep of the surrounding bushes and nearby areas did not reveal any additional threats. The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Moses Gara, noted that the mission significantly disrupted the operations of the armed group in the area. He praised the soldiers for what he described as their “courage, professionalism and dedication,” adding that those who participated in the operation would be put forward for commendation. Gara further appreciated members of the local community whose timely information, he said, contributed to the success of the mission. The latest action is part of intensified security efforts across Benue State. On 15 February, the Benue State Police Command confirmed the rescue of nine worshippers who were abducted during a night vigil at St John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Ado Local Government Area. The police said four individuals were taken into custody over the incident. Earlier reports also indicated that on 18 February, six travellers were kidnapped around Kula Village along the Naka–Makurdi road, with abductors allegedly demanding N100 million ransom. In a related development, 14 passengers were seized along the Okpokwu axis, while gunmen launched deadly assaults in communities within Kwande Local Government Area. Security authorities say the ongoing operations in Katsina-Ala are part of wider strategies aimed at tackling banditry, armed attacks, and kidnapping in different parts of the state. Don't Miss FCT polls holiday stalls Malami, son’s re-arraignment for terrorism, illegal arms possession You may like Troops repel suspected insurgents, neutralise informant in Borno Troops disrupt terrorist assembly, arrest five suspected arms smugglers in Yobe Nigerian troops arrest Boko Haram drone supplier, neutralise top commander Troops neutralise suspected Boko Haram fighter in Adamawa Benue Govt to demolish illegal structures for Makurdi Road dualisation project Benue: Katsina-Ala–Takum road project will strengthen security, spur economic growth – Umahi