Operation Whirl Stroke Reports Loss of Personnel in Agatu Attack

Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) has confirmed the death of three of its personnel during a violent attack by armed herdsmen on communities in Agatu Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.

Major General Sunday Igbinomwanhia, the Force Commander of OPWS, provided a detailed account of the incident, stating that two other members sustained injuries in the line of duty.

The military’s swift response was prompted by reports of residents fleeing the Okokolo community on Thursday.

Upon investigation, the troops learned of an imminent attack by suspected armed herdsmen and immediately mobilized to the community, located approximately 15km from their base.

During the operation, the military engaged the armed bandits in a three-hour gun battle, successfully repelling the attackers.

Major General Igbinomwanhia noted that the attack was thwarted, forcing the terrorists to retreat while evacuating their casualties.

The Force Commander highlighted the sacrifices made by the military in protecting Agatu, stating, “The success achieved was, however, at a huge cost with three of the troops paying the supreme sacrifice to prevent the killing of the inhabitants of Okokolo and the intended sacking of the community.”

Among the casualties were two soldiers and one personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, while two other soldiers sustained injuries and were evacuated to the Nigerian Air Force Hospital in Makurdi for medical treatment.

Following the incident, Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by Deputy Governor Sam Ode, visited the troops to convey his condolences and commend their bravery.

The Governor assured the Joint Task Force of the State Government’s unwavering support and pledged assistance in the treatment of the wounded soldiers.