Troops Inflict Heavy Casualty On Bandits In Plateau, Benue And Taraba States

Troops of the Nigerian Army on Christmas eve foiled an attack on passengers travelling from Bayelsa to Jos in Plateau State.

Troops deployed under the Operation WHIRL STROKE while on routine patrol, engaged the bandits who had mounted illegal roadblocks and stopped an unsuspecting commercial vehicle.

This development was made known to Naija News in a statement on Christmas day by the Coordinator
Defence Media Operations, Major-General John Enenche.

He explained that after the bandits were subdued by the superior firepower of the troops, the travellers were escorted to safety to proceed on their journey.

The statement reads: “On 24 December 2020, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE deployed at Udei general area, while on routine patrol along Markudi – Lafiya Road foiled an attempted armed bandits’ attack on passengers traveling from Bayelsa State to Jos.”

“The criminals who mounted an illegal check-point on the Road, stopped the commercial vehicle to rob the commuters. However, own troops intervened promptly with superior firepower and forced the criminals to flee in disarray.”

“Thereafter, troops provided armed escort for the commuters from the scene to Lafiya to enable them proceed with their journey.”

“Similarly, own troops deployed at Zaki Biam and Ukum, while on fighting patrol, responded to a distress call on bandits’ activities at Dyom Village in Borokiyo Council Ward of Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.”

“Troops swiftly mobilized to the scene where they had contact and engaged the criminals, forcing them to flee. However, troops followed the bandits in hot pursuit and neutralized 2 of them, while some others escaped with gunshot wounds. During the encounter, troops recovered some arms and ammunition and a motorcycle.”

“The Military High Command commends the troops for their efforts and further encourage them to remain committed to the course. Troops continue to maintain routine and confidence building patrols in the Zone.”

It will be recalled that the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu on 24th December, 2020 also directed security operatives to provide water-tight security for citizens of Nigeria during the yuletide.