From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Three civilians have been killed and one injured in an outbreak of violent hostilities between Ugambe community in Konshisha Local Government Area and Mbaiase community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
The Force Commander, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Major General Moses Gara, disclosed this in a statement signed by the Acting Media Information Officer HQ JTF OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu an made available to newsmen in Makurdi on Friday.
According to Gara, the incident occurred on October 8 2025, when the troops responded to a distress call that reported an outbreak of hostilities between the two neighboring communities.
He said on arrival at the scene, the troops came under sporadic fire from some armed elements dressed in black.
“The assailants fled into nearby bushes after troops returned fire with superior force.
”During subsequent exploitation, the troops recovered one magazine, eight rounds of 7.62x39mm special ammunition, 12 rounds of 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition, 15 empty ammunition shells, and various charms believed to have been used by the fleeing criminals.
“Sadly, three civilians were killed and one injured before the arrival of the troops.
“The wounded victim was promptly evacuated to General Hospital Aliade for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were deposited in the hospital mortuary.”
The Force Commander, commended the troops of Sector 1 Operation Whirl Stroke for their swift response and professionalism in restoring calm.
He said “Troops of OPWS have once again demonstrated unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security in Benue State through prompt intervention to stabilize a violent communal clash between Ugambe community in Konshisha Local Government Area and Mbaiase community in Gwer East Local Government Area.”
He urged them to remain vigilant and sustain aggressive patrols across the area to prevent a recurrence.
Major General Gara further appealed to community leaders and stakeholders in both localities to embrace dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully and work collectively toward lasting peace.
He also reaffirmed the commitment of OPWS to relentlessly combat insecurity and maintain stability across its Joint Operations Area.
