Troops Repel Bandit Attack in Benue, Sacrificing Three Lives to Protect Community

Troops from Sector 6 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) successfully defended Okokolo community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State against a bandit attack. The OPWS Force Commander, Maj.-Gen. Sunday Igbinomwanhia, confirmed that the troops repelled the attackers after a three-hour battle on Thursday, forcing them to retreat in disarray.

Despite the successful defense, two soldiers and one member of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps lost their lives in the encounter, while two other soldiers sustained injuries. The injured personnel received immediate medical attention at the Air Force Hospital in Makurdi and are currently undergoing treatment. The operation was prompted by intelligence indicating an impending attack on Okokolo community by bandits.

Upon arrival, the troops engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, lasting three hours, ultimately thwarting the assault. However, the victory came at a high cost, with three brave soldiers sacrificing their lives to protect the community from harm. Maj.-Gen. Igbinomwanhia praised the troops for their bravery and urged them to remain focused on their mission of eliminating criminal elements in Benue State.

He assured the troops of the Chief of Defence Staff’s unwavering support in their efforts to restore peace to the region. The force commander also expressed gratitude to Governor Hyacinth Alia for his support of OPWS and vowed to continue pursuing the criminals responsible for the attack. Deputy Governor Sam Ode, representing the governor, visited the troops at their base in Akwu to offer condolences and reaffirm the state government’s commitment to supporting the injured personnel. The loss of lives in the operation has sparked controversy, raising questions about the cost of military interventions in tackling criminal activities in the region.

Daily Nigerian