Troops rescue kidnapped woman, arrest two suspects in Benue

Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
According to the statement, the 28-year-old victim, Mrs Member Ityavber, was rescued after troops responded to reports of kidnapping activities at Tse-Ubena village in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.

The two suspects were arrested during a raid on a criminal hideout in Gwer West Local Government Area.

“Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have recorded significant operational successes following intelligence-led clearance operations conducted on 24 March 2026 across parts of Benue State,” the statement read.

“Acting on credible intelligence regarding the activities of armed herders within Mbapa and Mbabuande communities in Gwer West Local Government Area, troops of Sector 1 deployed from Bilawa-Jor and Naka swiftly mobilised to the area.

“On arrival, the troops conducted a thorough search and discovered an abandoned suspected criminal hideout.

“Troops continued clearance operations with further exploitation across River Akpako leading to the arrest of two suspects, who are currently in custody undergoing further investigation.

“In a related development on the same day, troops responded to reports of kidnapping activities at Tse-Ubena village in Yooyo Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.
“Troops deployed from Tor-Donga, in conjunction with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, conducted a coordinated operation on a suspected hideout.
“During the operation, one kidnapped victim, Mrs Member Ityavber, aged 28, was successfully rescued.

“The rescued victim is currently receiving care and has be reunited with her family after a debrief.
“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend members of the criminal syndicate responsible for the kidnap.”

“The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their prompt response and professionalism.
“He reaffirmed the commitment of the Joint Task Force to ensuring a secure environment, particularly as communities prepare for the farming season.”