By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, foiled a kidnapping attempt and rescued two victims during a fighting patrol along the Naka–Ahume Road in Benue State on 24 October 2026.
According to a statement by Lt Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, the troops encountered suspected kidnappers armed with dangerous weapons while the suspects were attempting to abduct motorists and other road users. The troops engaged them in a firefight, forcing them to abandon their captives and flee. A pursuit followed, but no further contact was made.
One of the rescued victims, Mrs Mngunengen Ihom, 36, from Ahume, sustained machete wounds during the incident. She was evacuated to Naka General Hospital for medical attention.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, and General Officer Commanding, 5 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, charged troops to sustain aggressive, intelligence-led operations against armed elements threatening residents in the Joint Operations Area. He also urged personnel to strengthen human intelligence gathering to improve early warning and response to security threats.
Major General Gara reassured residents of the Task Force’s continued commitment to restoring peace and security, and encouraged members of the public to provide credible, timely information to security agencies to support ongoing operations.
