In the Akwaza region of Benue State’s Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, members of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) and other security forces have conducted raids and demolished hideouts linked to the legendary bandit Konyo Mbise.
According to a statement released by the Nigerian Army, the operation is being conducted as part of a continuous effort to eliminate criminal groups from the region and guarantee a serene farming season in Benue.
“During a recent raid operation on May 18, 2025, members of the 72 Special Forces Battalion of OPWS, working closely with other security agencies, successfully busted and destroyed bandit camps associated with a notorious leader in Konyo Gbise, near Akwaza in Katsina-Ala LGA.”
A submachine gun with its magazine, a rifle made locally, 7.62mm special ammo, the butt and barrel of a rifle, and 9mm rounds were among the many artifacts retrieved during the operation.
Three point-of-sale terminals, two power generators, a cell phone, electrical wires, a painting apparatus, and seven solar panels were among the other things confiscated.
In addition to various photographs of wanted bandit commanders, the soldiers discovered half a bag of what they believed to be cannabis sativa.
The commander of Joint Task Force OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, expressed his gratitude to the troops for their accomplishments and emphasized the need to continue applying pressure to the criminal networks that are causing instability in the region.
Supporting ongoing military operations, he urged citizens of Benue State to report suspicious activities and provide credible information to security operatives.