Troops Kill Bandits, Rescue Kidnap Victims in Benue

On July 16, 2026, troops from the Nigerian Army, under the command of Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, engaged in operations in Benue State, targeting criminal hideouts in the Tse Togo and Uteng communities. Following credible intelligence, the troops stormed a terrorist enclave, resulting in a fierce gun battle that led to the death of two bandits and the rescue of three identified kidnap victims: Nyityo Abraham, a teacher; Uzuegwu Chukwuemeka, a spare parts dealer; and Terhemb Tavarshima, a farmer from Katsina Ala Local Government Area.

The operation also yielded significant recoveries, including one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle with an optic sight, a pistol, 19 AK-47 magazines, and various rounds of ammunition. Major General Mose Gara commended the troops for their courage and professionalism during the operation and reaffirmed the commitment of the task force to sustain offensive operations against banditry and criminal elements in the region.