Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified security operations across Benue State to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free yuletide, successfully foiling an ambush and dismantling a notorious criminal gang blocking the Ukum junction in the state.
In a coordinated operation carried out on 11 December 2025, OPWS operatives—working alongside personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, Zaki-Biam Division, and the Benue State Community Protection Guard—acted on credible intelligence to confront armed criminals who had mounted an illegal roadblock along the Aturuku–Wembe–Ayati route in Borkyo Council Ward, Ukum Local Government Area.
According to security sources, the gang had been ambushing travellers and dispossessing them of valuables. Upon arriving at the location, troops engaged the criminals in a decisive encounter, neutralising three suspects while others escaped into surrounding bush paths. Two motorcycles used by the gang were recovered at the scene, and a manhunt is underway to apprehend the fleeing criminals.
Preliminary investigations confirmed that the neutralised individuals were part of a notorious syndicate responsible for kidnappings and violent attacks across Ukum LGA. Their operations are believed to be linked to a network behind recent abductions near the Zaki-Biam yam market.
Community members later identified the deceased suspects as Sughter Abelebe and Sughnen Abelebe, both from Ugbaam Council Ward, and a third suspect from Tse Kpeakaa in Kundav Council Ward. Sources also suggest that the group had ties to a dreaded bandit kingpin operating within the Shitile axis of Katsina-Ala LGA.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, praised the high level of synergy among the participating security agencies. He commended the troops’ professionalism, discipline, and bravery, urging them to sustain the operational momentum, deepen intelligence-led missions, and strengthen security presence in vulnerable communities.
Major General Gara reaffirmed OPWS’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives, supporting civil authorities, and restoring enduring peace across its Joint Operations Area, especially as the festive season approaches.
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