Troops under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have successfully blocked major border corridors linking Nasarawa and Benue states, which bandits had long exploited to launch attacks on rural communities and escape across state lines.
The announcement came from Lt. Col. Donatus Otobo, Commanding Officer of the COAS Intervention Battalion XI, during an inspection of military positions in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
The battalion deployed to Guma on July 12, 2025, amid escalating banditry that had turned the area into a major security flashpoint. Upon arrival, troops faced intense resistance, including more than ten ambushes on their first day alone.
Despite the challenges, sustained operations have significantly weakened criminal networks and restored control over much of the territory.
Guma shares borders with Awe, Keana, and Doma local government areas in Nasarawa State an axis notorious for bandit transit. Criminals have taken advantage of the rugged terrain and sparsely populated border zones to stage surprise raids before retreating.
Lt. Col. Otobo explained that ongoing offensive patrols, fixed ambush setups, and close coordination with Nasarawa-based units have severely restricted bandit movements.
“Whenever there is pressure from the Nasarawa axis, they attempt to move into Guma. We have blocked those routes and pushed them back,” he stated.
He reported that the battalion has now achieved approximately 80% security in its area of responsibility.
Recent joint efforts between the two states led to the arrest of a suspected bandit who had crossed into Benue to carry out attacks.
Intelligence-led operations continue to drive these gains.Prior to the deployment, locals could not safely access farmlands or the Nasme axis due to frequent violence.
Today, economic life is rebounding farmers and traders are moving freely on routes that were previously abandoned.
The officer highlighted a dramatic drop in violence: “Guma used to record an average of ten killings weekly. Today, we sometimes go three months without a single attack. That is the result of sustained military pressure.”
He attributed the progress to consistent logistical and operational support from the Chief of Army Staff, noting the battalion's role as a rapid-response force for stabilizing high-risk zones before eventual handover.
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