Troops Recover Weapons, Explosives, Illicit Drugs in Benue, Kebbi
Troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded fresh operational successes in Benue and Kebbi states, recovering weapons, explosives, motorcycles and suspected illicit substances during separate security operations aimed at curbing criminality and terrorist activities.
Military sources disclosed that troops of Sector 1, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), recovered a locally fabricated firearm, ammunition and suspected narcotics while responding to a distress call in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The operation, which took place at about 8:00 a.m. on June 13, followed reports of suspicious activities in the area. According to the sources, the suspect fled the scene upon sighting the approaching troops.
A subsequent search led to the recovery of one locally fabricated pistol, two cartridges and several packs of substances suspected to be cannabis sativa, alongside other sundry items.
The recovered exhibits have been taken into military custody for further investigation and necessary action.
In a separate operation in Kebbi State, troops of the 1 Brigade Nigerian Army operating from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Kyangakwai engaged suspected Lakurawa terrorist elements during a fighting patrol towards Dogon Daji in Dandi Local Government Area.
The encounter occurred at about 11:00 a.m. on June 14 when troops came into contact with the terrorists and engaged them in a brief firefight.
Following the engagement, the troops recovered one rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) tube, three explosive devices, two motorcycles and other items believed to have been abandoned by the fleeing terrorists.
Military sources said troops subsequently conducted aggressive patrols and dominated the area to prevent any regrouping by the terrorist elements and to maintain control of the general area.
The operations underscore the Nigerian Army’s sustained efforts under Operation Whirl Stroke and ongoing counter-terrorism campaigns to disrupt criminal networks, degrade terrorist capabilities and strengthen security across vulnerable communities and border areas.
Security sources reaffirmed the military’s commitment to maintaining pressure on criminal and terrorist groups while enhancing safety and stability in affected regions.
By TimesNG