Troops arrest high profile criminal in Benue

Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE arrested a high-profile suspected criminal during an intelligence-driven operation in Agasha Village of Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, following a report of an attack on a local resident.

Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, disclosed this in a statement.

The operation was launched on 13 March 2026 after security agencies received credible information regarding an attack on Mr Shaapera Seeta Michael in Agasha Village,” the statement read.

“Acting swiftly on the report, troops of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Intervention Battalion XI deployed under Operation WHIRL STROKE mobilised immediately to the affected area to track down the suspect responsible for the assault.

“Upon arrival, the troops cordoned the area to prevent the suspect from escaping while conducting a targeted search operation aimed at identifying and apprehending the alleged attacker. 

“The suspected militia member identified as Mr Suurnen David Akum, aged 27, from Agasha Village in Guma Local Government Area, was successfully apprehended by the troops. 

“A locally fabricated rifle was also recovered from the suspect during the arrest. 

“The suspect is under investigation before being handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.”

The Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and tactical approach which led to the successful apprehension of the suspect. 

He encouraged them to maintain the operational momentum and remain vigilant in the ongoing efforts to deny criminal elements the freedom to operate within the area.