Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), a military exercise, has confirmed the unfortunate loss of three of its personnel in a fierce attack by armed herdsmen on communities in the Agatu Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
Major General Sunday Igbinomwanhia, the Force Commander of OPWS, provided a comprehensive overview of the incident, disclosing that two additional members suffered injuries while carrying out their duties.
Igbinomwanhia emphasized that the swift military response was prompted by the mass exodus of residents fleeing the Okokolo community on Thursday.
“On inquiry, the troops were informed that terrorists suspected to be armed herdsmen were advancing towards the town to attack it.
“The troops immediately mobilised and proceeded to the community which is about 15km from their base”, he narrated.
It was reported that the military confronted armed bandits launching an attack on the community and entered into a three-hour-long gun battle with them.
As per the commander, the intense confrontation led to the successful repulsion of the attackers.
“The attack was successfully repelled, with the terrorists withdrawing in disarray while evacuating their dead and wounded.” He further said.
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Major General Igbinomwanhia highlighted the significant expenses incurred by the military in safeguarding Agatu, emphasizing that the achievements came at a considerable cost.
He notedthat three troops made the ultimate sacrifice to prevent the harm of Okokolo residents and the planned devastation of the community.
Among the casualties were two soldiers and one member of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Moreover, two soldiers sustained injuries and were swiftly evacuated to the Nigerian Air Force Hospital in Makurdi for medical care.
Major General Igbinomwanhia shared that Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by Deputy Governor Sam Ode, paid a visit to the troops alongside him.
The Governor expressed condolences, commended the troops’ bravery, and assured the Joint Task Force of the State Government’s steadfast support.
Furthermore, he pledged assistance for the treatment of the injured soldiers.