JUST IN: Soldiers foil attack on Benue yam market, kill two terrorists

Soldiers under Operation Whirl Stroke, in collaboration with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, have foiled a suspected terrorist attack on Tor Donga Yam Market in Benue State.

The operation was carried out on Sunday after troops responding to a distress call made contact with the attackers while conducting fighting and confidence-building patrols.

A statement issued by Lt. Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, spokesman for Operation Whirl Stroke, said two suspected terrorists identified as Dantaraba and Golozo were killed during the exchange of gunfire.

The troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, one damaged pistol, one pistol magazine, six rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, nine rounds of 9mm pistol ammunition, one ATM card, one Moniepoint ATM card and other items.

The military said the operation enabled traders and residents to continue commercial activities at the market without disruption.

Maj-Gen Moses Gara, Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, commended the troops for their swift response and professionalism.

Gara said the operation prevented what could have resulted in significant civilian casualties and disruption of commercial activities.

He also praised the Benue State Civil Protection Guard for its collaboration with the military in tackling criminality in the state.

The Force Commander thanked residents for providing timely intelligence and urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies.