Bandits engaged in a massive gun battle with troops, resulting in the tragic deaths of two soldiers and an officer from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Okokolo community, Agatu Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue. Fortunately, the troops of Sector 6, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), successfully repelled the attack on the community.
Maj.-Gen. Sunday Igbinomwanhia, the OPWS Force Commander, revealed that the intense three-hour battle took place on Thursday, forcing the bandits to retreat in disarray. However, the heavy toll on the troops included the loss of two soldiers and one NSCDC personnel, with two other soldiers sustaining injuries. The injured were promptly evacuated to the Air Force Hospital in Makurdi and were reported to be responding well to treatment.
The troops swiftly responded to intelligence indicating an imminent attack by bandits on Okokolo community, located approximately 15 km from their base at Akwu. Upon arrival, they encountered the criminals and engaged them in a prolonged gun duel, successfully repelling the attack but at a significant cost.
Despite the tragic loss, Maj.-Gen. Igbinomwanhia commended the troops for their bravery and resilience. He urged them to focus on the mission of eliminating criminal elements from the state. He assured the troops of the strong support of the Chief of Defence Staff in their efforts to restore lasting peace in Benue.
Expressing gratitude, the force commander acknowledged the support of Gov. Hyacinth Alia and pledged that the troops would relentlessly pursue the criminals to their hideouts.
State Deputy Gov., Mr Sam Ode, along with the OPWS commander, visited the troops at their base in Akwu to offer condolences and encouragement. Ode, representing the governor, assured the government’s support for the treatment of the injured and emphasized the commitment to providing no breathing space for criminals in the state.
