Suspected criminal militia killed a woman and a Dangote truck driver along the Kyado–Jootar road in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE discovered the two lifeless bodies inside a Dangote truck during a night fighting patrol.
Attack Details and Discovery
The incident occurred at about midnight on Thursday, August 13, 2026, according to a security source who spoke to Zagazola Makama. Troops conducting a night patrol along the Kyado–Jootar road found the bodies inside a Dangote truck with registration number OPL-1B-029 at Igbayima.
Preliminary findings indicated that the victims were killed by a gang of suspected criminal Tiv militias believed to be involved in kidnapping for ransom in the area. The identity of the woman and further details about the circumstances surrounding her presence in the truck were not immediately available.
Evidence and Response
Troops recovered 11 empty casings of 7.62mm Special ammunition from the scene, indicating that firearms were used in the attack. Following the discovery, the bodies of the deceased were evacuated to the mortuary in Kyado, while the incident was formally reported to the police for further investigation.
The attack highlights the grim situation for commercial vehicles and other road users traveling along the Kyado–Jootar axis, where criminal Tiv elements have reportedly continued to target commuters and motorists.
Ongoing Security Operations
Troops are currently working to track down the perpetrators. Operation WHIRL STROKE is expected to sustain night fighting patrols and other security operations along the route to prevent further attacks and reassure residents and road users of their safety.
