Troops arrest suspected militia member in Benue

Benue militia arrest as Operation Whirl Stroke troops capture suspect in Guma LGA and recover a locally fabricated rifle

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested a suspected militia member in Agasha Village, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, following a reported attack on a local resident.

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The Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke confirmed the development in a statement issued on Saturday by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer at the task force headquarters.

According to the statement, the operation was launched on 13 March 2026 after troops received credible intelligence regarding an attack on Mr Shaapera Seeta Michael in Agasha community.

“Acting swiftly on the report, troops of the Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion XI, deployed under Operation Whirl Stroke, mobilised immediately to the affected area to track down the suspect responsible for the assault,” the statement said.

Upon arrival, the soldiers reportedly cordoned off the area to prevent the suspect from escaping while conducting a targeted search operation.

The suspected attacker, identified as Suurnen David Akum, 27, from Agasha Village, was subsequently apprehended by the troops during the operation.

“A locally fabricated rifle was also recovered from the suspect during the arrest,” the statement added.

Military authorities said the suspect is currently under investigation and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further legal action.

The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for what he described as their professionalism and tactical efficiency during the operation.

The commander also urged the soldiers to maintain vigilance and sustain ongoing efforts aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of operation in the region.

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Security operations under Operation Whirl Stroke continue across parts of Benue and neighbouring states as authorities intensify efforts to curb militia activities and improve safety in affected communities.

Quadri Olaitan