Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have successfully raided and destroyed hideouts belonging to notorious bandit leader Konyo Mbise in Benue State's Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, the Nigerian Army announced on Sunday.

The joint operation, conducted on May 18, 2025, involved the 72 Special Forces Battalion working in collaboration with other security agencies. The military offensive targeted camps around the Akwaza area, which has been a hotspot for criminal activities.

According to the statement released by the Nigerian Army, the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to eliminate criminal elements and ensure a peaceful farming season in Benue State.

Weapons and Equipment Recovered

During the raid, troops recovered several weapons and items including:

- A submachine gun with magazine
- A locally fabricated rifle
- 7.62mm special ammunition
- A rifle butt and barrel
- 9mm rounds
- Three POS machines
- Two power generators
- A mobile phone
- Electrical cables
- A painting machine
- Seven solar panels

The troops also discovered half a bag of suspected cannabis sativa and various portraits of wanted bandit leaders during the operation.

Major General Moses Gara, Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, commended the troops for their successful operation and encouraged them to maintain pressure on criminal networks operating in the region.

"The Commander has urged troops to sustain pressure on criminal networks that are destabilizing the region," the statement read.

Call for Public Cooperation

Major General Gara also appealed to residents of Benue State to support the ongoing military operations by reporting suspicious activities and providing credible information to security operatives.

The operation against Konyo Mbise's gang comes amid increased efforts by security forces to combat banditry and ensure security in Nigeria's Middle Belt region, which has faced significant security challenges in recent years.

Authorities have pledged to continue operations against criminal elements to restore peace and security to affected communities in Benue State.