Benue: Troops Arrest 18-Year-Old Over Alleged Pipeline Vandalism Attempt
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have arrested an 18-year-old man in Gou community, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, following an intelligence report about suspected pipeline vandalism.
The arrest was made on October 20, 2026, during a fighting patrol conducted by troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) as part of efforts to safeguard critical national infrastructure and curb criminal activities in the area.
The suspect, identified as Aondoyima Agber, a motorcycle rider, was allegedly caught attempting to transport a section of a pipeline believed to have been targeted by suspected vandals.
The troops reportedly moved to the location after receiving information about the suspected criminal activities. However, the other suspected vandals had fled before the soldiers arrived.
Agber was subsequently apprehended and taken into custody, where he is awaiting further directives. Meanwhile, the troops have sustained their operational presence in the area to deter further attacks on critical infrastructure and frustrate the activities of armed bandits.
Reacting to the development, the Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE and General Officer Commanding, 5 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their prompt response and effective use of intelligence.
He described the operation as a timely intervention that helped prevent the suspected vandalism of critical national assets.
The senior military officer cautioned individuals involved in pipeline vandalism and other forms of infrastructure destruction to desist from such acts, noting the importance of protecting public assets.
Gara also called on members of the public to support security efforts by remaining alert and reporting suspicious activities to security agencies.
He reaffirmed the task force’s commitment to working with local communities to combat criminality, protect vital infrastructure and maintain peace and security throughout its area of responsibility.
