Troop arrests three suspects with firearm, cash in Benue

Troops from Operation Whirl Stroke have apprehended three individuals allegedly in possession of firearms in Ohimini Local Government Area, Benue State.

This was disclosed on Thursday, October 6, 2025, by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer of HQ JTF Operation Whirl Stroke.

According to the statement, the arrests took place on Wednesday, November 5, during a routine patrol along the Otukpo–Enugu Road, specifically at the Amoda axis of Ohimini LGA.

“Troops from Sector 1, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), continue to intensify efforts to eliminate criminal activities in Benue and surrounding areas,” the statement read. “On November 5, 2025, while on routine patrol along Otukpo–Enugu Road at Amoda, the troops apprehended three suspects found with a locally made pistol and one cartridge.”

The suspects have been identified as John Isaac (22), Baba Emmanuel (17), and Sunday Thomas (19), all residents of Otukpo LGA. They were stopped for a search while riding a motorcycle based on intelligence received.

During the search, the troops recovered three mobile phones and N20,200 from the suspects. Preliminary investigations indicate the trio was reportedly on their way to commit a criminal act before being intercepted. They remain in custody for further investigation and necessary legal actions.

Major General Moses Gara, Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, praised the troops for their professionalism and swift response in preventing the potential threat. He encouraged the troops to sustain their operational efforts and strengthen surveillance, particularly to protect farmers and rural communities during the harvest season.

General Gara also reaffirmed Operation Whirl Stroke’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, assuring residents of the military’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property.