The Defence Headquarters disclosed on Monday that Nigerian troops in operational theatres in Benue and Katsina states have neutralised five terrorists.

The Director of Defence Media Operations Major General Benard Onyeuko stated in a statement that “Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE in a fierce battle eliminated terrorists”. He added: “On July15 2022 based on credible intelligence, the troops conducted a raid operation at CHITO general area, SANKERA council ward in Ukum Local Government Area, Benue State and in the process, came in contact with suspected bandits”.

Continuing, he said: “Bandits on sighting the advancing troops, fired at the direction of the troops. Troops responded with heavy/superior fire power and neutralize 3 bandits while others escaped.

“Troops searched bandits’ hideout and recovered 18 motorcycles used by the bandits to terrorise the general area.

According to the director,

“In another, Troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI in a special operation in the early hours of July17, 2022 conducted operation at PALALE-JAJA village in JIBIA Local Government Area of Katsina State and made contact with terrorists.

“Troops engaged them with and neutralized 2 terrorists. Items recovered include 2 AK 47 Rifles, 2 Magazines, 16 rounds of 7.62mm special, 6 motorcycles, 2 phones, 1 clipper, some packets of tramadol drug, among other items”.