Troops nab three terror suspects, recover AK-47 in Benue

Personnel of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested three suspected terrorists and recovered an AK-47 rifle along with ammunition during a security operation in Agasha, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

In a statement issued on Friday, OPWS spokesperson, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, said the operation was carried out on March 26, 2026, by troops of the COAS Intervention Battalion XI following credible intelligence on the movement of suspected criminals in the area.

Zubairu stated that the soldiers tactically cordoned off the location, leading to the arrest of the suspects, identified as Sule Ibrahim and Salmanu Risko from Nasarawa State, and Abdulkareem Haruna from Jos, Plateau State.

Recovered items include an AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and 27 rounds of 7.62mm x 39 ammunition. Other items found in their possession were a Tecno mobile phone, a cutlass, 10 sachets of alcohol, and assorted charms.

He added that the suspects are currently in military custody as investigations continue before they are charged to court.

The spokesperson noted that the raid forms part of ongoing efforts to safeguard farming communities ahead of the rainy season, with troops sustaining heightened vigilance to curb criminal activities across the state.

Meanwhile, the Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their discipline, commitment, and professionalism in ensuring the safety of lives and property within the region.