Drug trafficker abandons vehicle as troops foil drug movement in Akwanga

October 16, 2025

Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), conducting routine stop-and-search operations at a checkpoint in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, have intercepted a vehicle conveying substances suspected to be hard drugs.

In a statement Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer
HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKET, the interception occurred on 14 October 2025 around Anguwan Malama in Akwanga Local Government Area.

Upon sighting the troops, the driver of the ash-coloured Toyota Solara with registration number KJA-108FY (Lagos) abandoned the vehicle and fled into nearby bushes.

Despite a swift pursuit by the troops, the suspect managed to evade arrest. A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of several bags of substances suspected to be marijuana.

The vehicle and recovered exhibits are currently in military custody for further investigation and subsequent handover to relevant authorities.

The Force Commander Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops through the Commander Sector 2, Brigadier General DC Nwakonobi for their vigilance, resilience, and professionalism which led to the interception.

He reaffirmed the determination of Operation WHIRL STROKE to deny criminal elements freedom of action, enhance inter-agency collaboration, and ensure continued safety and stability across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States.