Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have successfully blocked major cross-border routes between Benue and Nasarawa states, cutting off corridors allegedly used by bandits to launch attacks on rural communities and escape across state lines. The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to stabilise volatile areas in the North-Central region.
The development was disclosed by the Commanding Officer of the COAS Intervention Battalion XI, Lt. Col. Donatus Otobo, during an operational inspection of military formations deployed in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, one of the areas most affected by recurring bandit attacks.
Lt. Col. Otobo explained that his battalion was deployed to Guma on July 12, 2025, following months of sustained violence that had turned the local government into a major security hotspot, forcing residents to abandon their homes and farmlands.
According to him, troops met stiff resistance immediately upon deployment, as armed bandits attempted to confront advancing soldiers and disrupt the military’s presence in the area. Despite the early challenges, the troops pressed on with coordinated ground operations and patrols.
He stated that sustained military pressure has now forced criminal elements out of several hideouts, while key infiltration and escape routes linking Guma with Awe, Keana, and Doma local government areas of Nasarawa State have been effectively sealed.
Otobo noted that the closure of these corridors has significantly reduced cross-border movement by bandits, limiting their ability to strike communities in Benue and retreat into neighbouring states. He added that the battalion has recorded substantial security gains within its area of responsibility.
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“As of today, we have achieved about 80 per cent security within our operational area,” the commanding officer said, attributing the progress to aggressive patrols, ambush operations, and close coordination with other military units operating within the OPWS framework.
The improved security has also had a positive impact on local communities, with residents gradually returning to their villages and farmlands after months of displacement caused by fear of attacks, kidnappings, and killings.
Otobo further revealed that intelligence-driven operations and cooperation from local communities have led to the arrest of suspected criminals, including individuals who attempted to cross from Nasarawa into Benue to carry out attacks.
Operation Whirl Stroke remains a key military intervention in Benue and neighbouring states, as the Nigerian Army continues efforts to dismantle armed groups, secure border communities, and restore lasting peace to areas long plagued by banditry and insecurity.
