Troops kill two suspected bandits in gun battle on Naka–Makurdi road

Troops attached to Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) Joint Task Force have killed two suspected bandits during a security operation along the Naka–Makurdi axis of Benue State.

Sources in the area disclosed on Monday that the assailants allegedly moved onto the highway before residents alerted security forces.

The troops were said to have swiftly mobilised to the scene and engaged the suspects in a gun battle, resulting in the deaths of two of them.

The Naka–Makurdi road had previously gained a reputation for frequent kidnappings and violent attacks by armed groups, forcing many motorists to avoid the route for years.

However, enhanced security measures introduced after the Yelwata massacre in June last year led to increased deployment of security personnel, restoring confidence among road users and encouraging motorists to resume travel along the corridor.

Despite the improved security presence, the suspects reportedly resurfaced on the road on Monday, January 26, attempting to carry out fresh attacks before residents of Ahume community in Gwer West Local Government Area raised an alarm.

Confirming the development, the Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, issued a statement on Monday.

Zubairu said, “Two suspected armed bandits were neutralised during a snap ambush operation conducted on 26 January 2026 along the Naka–Ahume -Makurdi road in Benue State.”

According to him, troops stationed in Naka were conducting routine fighting patrols when they received credible intelligence about the movement of armed bandits within the area.

Parts of the statement read, “Consequently, troops tactically laid an ambush along the identified route and made contact with the criminals.

“During the encounter, three suspected armed bandits were sighted. Two were neutralised, while the third escaped with a gunshot wound.”

The OPWS spokesperson further revealed that one AK-47 rifle, loaded with six rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, was recovered from the scene.

He added that soldiers have intensified patrols across the surrounding areas to prevent criminal elements from regrouping or carrying out further attacks.

Zubairu also stated that the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their professionalism, noting that the success of the mission underscored the value of intelligence-led operations.

The commander reaffirmed the Joint Task Force’s determination to sustain ongoing operations and strengthen coordinated efforts to enhance security throughout the Joint Operations Area.

Troops kill two suspected bandits in gun battle on Naka–Makurdi road