Troops arrest 3 in Benue, recover pistol, others

Nov. 7, 2025

Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have arrested three suspected criminals in Benue with a pistol, cartridge and three mobile phones.

Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, Head Quarters OPWS, made the disclosure in a statement issued in Makurdi on Friday.

Zubairu said that the suspects were arrested during a routine patrol along Otukpo–Enugu Road at Amoda Axis in Ohimini Local Government Area of the state on November 5.

He named the suspects to include John Isaac, 22; Emmanuel Baba, 17; and Sunday Thomas, 19, all of Otukpo Local Government Area.

“Sequel to the search, the troops recovered three mobile phones and N20,200 from the suspects.

“Preliminary investigation suggests that they were on their way to carry out a criminal act before they were intercepted by the vigilance troops,” he said.

He said the suspects were currently in their custody for further investigation and necessary actions.

Zubairu stated that the Force Commander, OPWS, Maj.-Gen Moses Gara, has commended the troops for their professional conduct and robust response in countering the threats before they happen.

The commander urged them to maintain the momentum and intensify surveillance to ensure the safety of farmers and rural dwellers, especially as the harvest season progresses.

He further reaffirmed the commitment of OPWS to sustaining peace and stability across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States.