Some armed herdsmen have been dislodged by troops of the Operation Whirl Stroke in Benue State.
The troops deployed at the Mbakyior Outpost and Agidi community were dislodged during a farm patrol in Gwer East Local Government Area of the state.
The troops also succeeded in recovering an AK-47 rifle with a mounted magazine and live rounds during the operation which took place on August 14.
It was gathered that the routine patrol is aimed at safeguarding communities and farmlands in the state.
The troops were said to have approached a suspected crossing point reportedly used by armed herders at the Mbakyior community.
The suspects upon sighting the troops opened fire while trying to flee.
Troops of the OPWS in a coordinated response returned fire forcing the suspects to disengage and flee the area.
They also abandoned an AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Major General Moses Gara, the Force Commander for OPWS, commended the troops for their tact and, professionalism during the operation.
Gara further urged the troops to remain alert, proactive, and responsive to actionable intelligence provided by residents of the communities.