By FOLUSHO ALADE,ABUJA
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have neutralized armed bandits in River Yo-Yo and Tachar villages in Benue State according to a report from the Defence Media Operations (DMO) of the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
The report contained in a press release and signed by MAJ GEN JOHN ENENCHE, Coordinator Defence Media Operations said while the troops were on raid operations ,they had contact with armed bandits who opened fire as troops closed in on their position.
The Troops responded with superior fire power forcing the armed elements to flee into the surrounding bushes.
The troops however neutralised two of the while one locally made AK 47 rifle, one magazine, 7 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, one Toyota Corolla car, some substances suspected to be indian hemp as well as charms were recovered.
The statement read in full:
“ In continuation of aggressive clearance operation to stamp out untoward activities in the North-Central zone, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded significant successes against criminal elements.
“Troops while on raid operations at River Yo-Yo and Tachar villages respectively had contact with armed bandits who opened fire as troops closed in on their position. Troops responded with superior fire power forcing the armed elements to flee into the surrounding bushes.
“The gallant troops engaged the bandits in hot pursuit following which 2 were neutralised. In the course of operation, one locally made AK 47 rifle, one magazine, 7 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, one Toyota Corolla car, some substances suspected to be indian hemp as well as charms were recovered. Troops subsequently cleared the bandits’ hideout. Currently, the gallant troops have dominated the area with aggressive patrols to deny bandits freedom of action.
“The Military High Command commends the gallant troops for their dedication and professionalism and encourages them to intensify the onslaught against the enemies of our Nation”. The statement said.