Security Forces Thwart Bandit Attack, Eliminate Three Criminals in Benue Operation

Security operatives under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have stepped up patrols across Benue State ahead of the festive period, successfully disrupting a planned ambush and breaking up a criminal gang that had been terrorising commuters in Ukum Local Government Area.

The operation, carried out on Thursday, 11 December 2025, saw OPWS troops working in collaboration with officers of the Nigeria Police Force from the Zaki-Biam Division and the Benue State Community Protection Guard. Acting on credible intelligence, the joint team moved against armed criminals who had mounted an illegal checkpoint along the Aturuku–Wembe–Ayati road in Borkyo Council Ward.

Security sources disclosed that the gang had been using the route to ambush travellers and dispossess them of money and valuables. Upon arrival, the troops encountered the armed group, leading to a brief but intense exchange of gunfire. Three members of the gang were neutralised, while others escaped into nearby bushes. Two motorcycles believed to have been used by the criminals were recovered, and efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects.

Investigations later revealed that the neutralised suspects belonged to a notorious criminal network linked to repeated kidnappings and violent attacks within Ukum LGA, including incidents around the Zaki-Biam yam market. Community accounts identified two of the suspects as Sughter Abelebe and Sughnen Abelebe from Ugbaam Council Ward, while the third hailed from Tse Kpeakaa in Kundav Council Ward. The gang is also suspected to have connections with a known bandit leader operating around the Shitile axis of Katsina-Ala LGA.

Commending the successful operation, the Force Commander of the Joint Task Force OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, praised the cooperation among the security agencies and applauded the troops for their bravery and professionalism. He encouraged them to maintain the tempo of operations, deepen intelligence-led engagements, and strengthen security coverage in flashpoint areas.

Major General Gara reaffirmed OPWS’s resolve to protect lives and property, assist civil authorities, and ensure sustained peace across the Joint Operations Area as the Christmas season draws near. The briefing was issued by the Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, on 11 December 2025.