..neutralizes bandits in plateau, Benue and Taraba States
…recovers arms and ammunition
By FOLUSHO ALADE ,ABUJA
The fight against insurgency and other form of criminalities received another boost with the report of Operation Whirl Stroke foiling a planned attack by bandits on commuters in the north-central zone of the country during the yuletide period.
A Press release from the Defence Media Operations (DMO) of the Defence Headquarters in Abuja signed by MAJ GEN JOHN ENENCHE, the Coordinator, said on the 24th December 2020, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE deployed at Udei general area, while on routine patrol along Markudi – Lafiya Road foiled an attempted armed bandits’ attack on passengers traveling from Bayalsa State to Jos.
The superior firepower of the troops forced the criminals to flee in disarray. Thereafter, troops provided armed escort for the commuters from the scene to Lafiya to enable them proceed with their journey.
The full statement said:
“ In continuation of efforts to rid the North Central Zone of armed bandits and other criminal elements as well as to ensure a peaceful Yuletide season, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE intensifies the tempo in their operations.
“On 24 December 2020, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE deployed at Udei general area, while on routine patrol along Markudi – Lafiya Road foiled an attempted armed bandits’ attack on passengers traveling from Bayalsa State to Jos. The criminals who mounted an illegal check-point on the Road, stopped the commercial vehicle to rob the commuters. However, own troops intervened promptly with superior firepower and forced the criminals to flee in disarray. Thereafter, troops provided armed escort for the commuters from the scene to Lafiya to enable them proceed with their journey.
“Similarly, own troops deployed at Zaki Biam and Ukum, while on fighting patrol, responded to a distress call on bandits’ activities at Dyom Village in Borokiyo Council Ward of Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. Troops swiftly mobilized to the scene where they had contact and engaged the criminals, forcing them to flee. However, troops followed the bandits in hot pursuit and neutralized 2 of them, while some others escaped with gunshot wounds. During the encounter, troops recovered some arms and ammunition and a motorcycle.
“The Military High Command commends the troops for their efforts and further encourage them to remain committed to the course. Troops continue to maintain routine and confidence building patrols in the Zone”.The report read.
