Troops Neutralize Armed Criminal In Benue State, Arrest Suspect And Recover Locally Fabricated Pistol In Nasarawa State
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE conducted a deliberate ambush operation on 15 October 2025. The operation took place east of Ayilamo, within Tombo council ward of Logo Local Government Area, Benue State. The troops made contact with the criminal elements where one of the armed criminal was successfully neutralized; other suspects fled the scene, reportedly sustaining gunshot wounds. Following the initial contact, troops exploited the area and recovered one (1) AK-47 rifle, one (1) AK-47 magazine, and fourteen (14) rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition. Troops maintained domination of the general area after the operation, conducting patrols to reassure and bolster the confidence of local communities.
In another development, troops of Sub-Sector 2, deployed at Maraba Udege Community, Nasarawa Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, received a distress call from Maraba Market on Wednesday, 15 October 2025. The report indicated that a man in the market was in possession of a pistol.
Upon arrival at the scene, the troops apprehended the suspect, identified as Mr Ramanu Elizabeth, and recovered a locally fabricated pistol from him. The suspect and the recovered item are currently in custody for further investigation and necessary action.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism, discipline, and tactical proficiency. The Force Commander further enjoined the troops to maintain the tempo of operations to ensure a safe and secured environment for law abiding citizens to engage in legitimate enterprise without fear.
Investigation and follow-up operations are ongoing. Troops will continue to work with local security stakeholders and community leaders to gather actionable intelligence, disrupt criminal networks, and restore normalcy in affected Joint Operations Area. Operation WHIRL STROKE reiterates its commitment to protecting innocent lives and sustaining pressure on those who perpetrate violence in the region.
