Troops Arrest Three Armed Suspects During Patrol in Benue

By Enemona Samuel Endurance | The Bureau News

MAKURDI, Nigeria News Today — Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested three suspected criminals found in possession of arms in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.

The acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, noting that the suspects were apprehended during a routine patrol along the Otukpo–Enugu Road at the Amoda axis of the local government area.

According to him, the suspects — John Isaac (22 years), Baba Emmanuel (17 years), and Sunday Thomas (19 years) — all residents of Otukpo, were stopped based on intelligence while riding a motorcycle.

“Sequel to the search, the troops recovered three mobile phones and the sum of ₦20,200 from the suspects,” the statement read partly.

Zubairu added that preliminary investigations indicated the suspects were on their way to carry out a criminal act before being intercepted by the vigilant troops. He confirmed that the suspects are currently in custody for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The OPWS spokesperson also quoted the Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, as commending the troops for their professionalism and swift response in preventing a potential security threat.

Gara urged the troops to sustain their operational momentum and intensify surveillance to ensure the safety of farmers and rural residents, especially during the ongoing harvest season. He reaffirmed the commitment of Operation Whirl Stroke to maintaining peace across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, assuring citizens of continuous military support in protecting lives and property.

The arrests came just days after an attack in Ohimini LGA where four people were reportedly killed. The local government chairman, Adole Gabriel, confirmed the incident, stating that “two farmers were killed on Monday and another two on Tuesday afternoon.”