One soldier missing as OPWS, bandits clash in Benue

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), while on the trail of suspected bandits yesterday, were reportedly ambushed at Bonta village in Konshisha Local Council of Benue State, leading to the disappearance of two soldiers.

The soldiers were said to be on routine patrol in parts of Konshisha and Oju local councils of the state on Monday afternoon when they came under severe attack by bandits.

Local sources told The Guardian that the gang named ‘Bonta Boys’ attacked the soldiers for coming to destroy the illegal roadblock they mounted.

It was further gathered that at the time of this report, a soldier was still missing, as one was found yesterday morning.

According to the source that pleaded anonymity, the soldiers were on patrol around Ukpute village when some bandits ambushed and opened fire on them.

However, our source disclosed: “When it happened, we immediately alerted members of Operation Whirl Stroke, who responded swiftly. But before their arrival, the gunmen had fled. OPWS is already on the trail of the bandits and we pray they are able to rescue the remaining missing soldier soon.”

The source further hinted that the OPWS troops stayed overnight in Konshisha to continue the operation.

“I believe this was carried out probably to intimidate the military who are doing a great job in the state,” the source stated.

OPWS commander, Maj-Gen. Adeyemi Yekini, could not be reached at press time, as his phone lines were all switched off and messages sent to him were not delivered.