Troops of the Maritime Component of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, have repelled suspected armed herdsmen and recovered weapons and other items during an intelligence-driven operation in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

The operation was conducted on October 26, 2026, following intelligence reports that suspected criminal elements disguising themselves as herders had crossed from neighbouring Nasarawa State into Guma LGA. This was disclosed in a statement issued by Lieutenant Ahamdu Zubairu, Assistant Media Information Officer at the Headquarters of Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE.

According to the statement, the troops came under gunfire from the suspected armed group upon arriving at the identified location. The soldiers swiftly responded, repelled the attack and forced the assailants to flee. The statement added that no casualties were recorded among the troops during the encounter.

Items recovered during the operation included two AK-47 rifles, four empty AK-47 magazines, eight calves, three mobile phones, a National Identification Number (NIN) document belonging to one Mr Umar Yusuf, and the sum of ₦20.

The Force Commander of Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, and General Officer Commanding, 5 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Kolo Gara, commended the troops for their vigilance, swift response and successful recovery of the items.

He urged the troops to strengthen cooperation with local communities and sustain intelligence-led operations to prevent criminal activities and improve security across the Joint Operations Area.

The operation forms part of ongoing security efforts by the Joint Task Force to counter criminal activities and maintain peace in Benue State and other parts of its operational area.