TROOPS ARREST SUSPECTED MILITIA MEMBER, RECOVER RIFLE IN BENUE

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested a suspected high-profile criminal in Agasha Village, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, following a reported attack on a local resident.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu.

According to the statement, the operation was launched on March 13, 2026, after security operatives received credible information about an attack on a resident, Mr. Shaapera Seeta Michael.

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

Upon arrival at the scene, the troops reportedly cordoned off the area to prevent the suspect from escaping while conducting a targeted search operation.

During the operation, the suspected militia member, identified as Suurnen David Akum, 27, from Agasha Village, was arrested.

Security operatives also recovered a locally fabricated rifle from the suspect at the time of his arrest.

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

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

He urged them to maintain operational momentum and remain vigilant in ongoing efforts to prevent criminal elements from operating within the area.