Major General Moses Gara, Commander of Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), says troops operating across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba states have rescued 337 kidnapped victims and recovered 4,105 rustled cattle in ongoing security operations.
Gara disclosed this on Saturday in Makurdi, Benue State, while highlighting the achievements and challenges faced by the task force.
He credited the successes to the strategic support and direction provided by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Air Staff, and other military service chiefs.
According to him, the military leadership has consistently ensured the availability of key operational assets, including combat helicopters, fighter jets, and other equipment necessary for effective missions.
He explained that OPWS was created as an intervention force to complement existing security structures in the affected states rather than replace them.
The commander said the task force works in collaboration with other security agencies to close operational gaps and tackle emerging threats.
Gara also noted that criminality remains the main factor behind insecurity in the region, contrary to the common belief that most violence stems solely from farmer-herder conflicts.
He stated that over 80 percent of the security challenges are driven by criminal activities such as kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other unlawful acts, although some incidents may still be tied to communal disputes.
He emphasized the role of intelligence gathering and community support in improving security, noting that information from residents has helped in rescuing victims, recovering weapons, and preventing attacks.
However, he expressed concern that many community members are often unwilling to share useful information due to fear of retaliation from criminal groups.
