Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), in collaboration with the Zaki-Biam Division of the Nigeria Police Force and the Benue State Community Protection Guard, have dismantled a criminal gang operating an illegal roadblock in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
Confirming the report, Acting Media Information Officer HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu said the operation, conducted on 11 December 2025 following credible intelligence, targeted an armed group that had blocked the route linking Aturuku, Wembe and Ayati villages in Borkyo Council Ward. The gang was reportedly responsible for ambushing and robbing unsuspecting travellers along the route.
According to OPWS, troops engaged the criminals upon arrival at the junction, neutralising three members of the group while others escaped into nearby bushes. Security personnel recovered two motorcycles used by the suspects and have launched a manhunt for the fleeing accomplices.
He said preliminary investigations revealed that the neutralised individuals were part of a syndicate behind several kidnapping incidents across Ukum LGA, including recent abductions near the Zaki-Biam yam market. Community members later identified the deceased as Sughter Abelebe and Sughnen Abelebe, both from Ugbaam Council Ward, along with a third suspect from Tse Kpeakaa in Kundav Council Ward. Sources linked the group to a notorious bandit kingpin operating within the Shitile axis of Katsina-Ala LGA.
Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, commended the coordinated effort and professionalism demonstrated by the security team. He urged troops to sustain the momentum, intensify intelligence-driven operations and strengthen security presence in vulnerable communities as part of efforts to ensure a peaceful and secure Yuletide season.
Major General Gara reaffirmed OPWS’s commitment to safeguarding lives, supporting civil authorities and restoring lasting peace across its Joint Operations Area.
