Military Operation Nabs Armed Suspects in Benue
In a significant security breakthrough, troops from Operation Whirl Stroke have successfully apprehended three individuals suspected of criminal activities in Benue State. The armed suspects were captured during a routine patrol operation in Ohimini Local Government Area, preventing what authorities believe was an imminent criminal act.
Details of the Arrest Operation
The arrest occurred on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, when vigilant troops from Sector 1 of Operation WHIRL STROKE were conducting their regular patrol duties along the crucial Otukpo-Enugu Road. The operation specifically took place at the Amoda axis within Ohimini Local Government Area, where the military personnel intercepted the suspects.
According to Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the Acting Media Information Officer for HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, the three individuals were stopped for searching based on credible intelligence reports. The suspects were traveling on a motorcycle when the troops approached them for inspection.
The identified suspects include John Isaac (22 years), Baba Emmanuel (17 years), and Sunday Thomas (19 years). All three individuals are residents of Otukpo Local Government Area, confirming local involvement in the criminal activity.
Recovered Evidence and Ongoing Investigation
During the thorough search conducted by the military personnel, security forces made several important recoveries from the suspects. The most significant findings included a locally made pistol and one cartridge, clearly indicating their preparedness for violent activities.
Additional items recovered from the suspects included:
- Three mobile phones
- Cash amounting to N20,200
Preliminary investigations conducted by security officials suggest that the suspects were en route to execute a criminal mission when the alert troops intercepted them. The timely intervention potentially prevented another crime from occurring in the region.
Currently, all three suspects remain in military custody where they are undergoing further investigation to uncover their complete criminal network and intended targets. The military is working to determine if they have connections to other criminal elements operating in Benue State and neighboring regions.
Leadership Commendation and Future Security Measures
Major General Moses Gara, the Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, has publicly praised the troops for their professional conduct during the operation. He specifically commended their robust response in neutralizing the security threat before it could materialize into actual violence.
The Force Commander has directed the troops to maintain their current operational momentum and intensify surveillance activities across the region. This enhanced security posture is particularly crucial as the harvest season progresses, requiring additional protection for farmers and rural communities who are most vulnerable to criminal attacks.
General Gara reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of Operation WHIRL STROKE to sustaining peace and stability throughout Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States. He assured residents that the military remains dedicated to its primary mandate of protecting lives and property across these conflict-prone regions.
The successful operation demonstrates the continued effectiveness of Operation WHIRL STROKE in combating criminal elements that threaten the peace and stability of Benue State and adjoining areas. The military's proactive approach to security management continues to yield positive results in reducing crime rates in the region.
