Troops arrest seven suspected cultists, recover weapon, charms in Benue

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested seven suspected cultists during a precision raid on a criminal hideout in the North Bank area of Makurdi, Benue State a location repeatedly flagged for youth gang violence and drug-related crimes.

The operation, conducted on Thursday, October 30, followed credible intelligence about the activities of cult groups allegedly linked to armed robbery, drug abuse, and retaliatory attacks within the state capital.

A statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, confirmed that the suspects were apprehended after troops stormed their hideout and recovered dangerous weapons and incriminating items.

“During the operation, troops apprehended seven (7) suspected cultists believed to be involved in various criminal activities, including armed robbery, drug abuse, and cult-related violence. Items recovered from the hideout include two (2) locally fabricated pistols, one (1) laptop, one (1) cartridge, one (1) round of 7.62mm ammunition, one (1) empty 7.62mm shell casing, one (1) dagger, and several bags containing charms and other incriminating materials,” the statement partly read.

All seven suspects are currently in military custody and will be profiled before being handed over to appropriate security agencies for further investigation.

The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their “professionalism, vigilance, and resilience,” and directed that pressure be sustained on criminal gangs operating within North Bank and neighbouring university communities.

He also issued a warning to young people, especially students in tertiary institutions, urging them to “shun cultism, drug abuse, and other forms of criminal behaviour,” while emphasizing the importance of discipline and patriotism.

Gara assured that the Joint Task Force would sustain its operations and continue large-scale security sweeps to maintain peace and stability across Benue State.