By Bavoriat Clara
Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), have once again demonstrated their steadfast commitment to peace and security by swiftly intervening to stop a violent communal clash between Ugambe community in Konshisha Local Government Area and Mbaiase community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to a statement by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the incident occurred on 8 October 2025, following a distress call reporting renewed hostilities between the two neighboring communities.
On arrival at the scene, the troops came under sporadic gunfire from unidentified armed elements dressed in black. The assailants, however, fled into nearby bushes after troops engaged them with superior firepower.
During a subsequent search operation, troops recovered one magazine, eight rounds of 7.62x39mm special ammunition, twelve rounds of 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition, fifteen empty shells, and several charms suspected to have been used by the fleeing criminals.
Unfortunately, three civilians lost their lives and one sustained injuries before the troops’ arrival. The wounded victim was immediately evacuated to the General Hospital, Aliade, for treatment, while the remains of the deceased were deposited in the hospital mortuary.
The Force Commander, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops of Sector 1 for their swift response and professionalism in restoring calm. He urged them to remain alert and sustain aggressive patrols to forestall any resurgence of violence.
Major General Gara also appealed to community leaders and stakeholders in both localities to embrace dialogue and pursue peaceful means of resolving disputes. He reaffirmed the commitment of Operation WHIRL STROKE to maintaining peace, combating insecurity, and ensuring stability across its Joint Operations Area.
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