Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation WHIRL STROKE, have foiled an alleged pipeline vandalism attempt in Gou community, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, arresting an 18-year-old motorcycle rider suspected of transporting a section of the pipeline.
The arrest followed an intelligence-led operation on October 20, 2026, during which troops on fighting patrol received information about the activities of suspected pipeline vandals operating in the community.
In a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the troops were said to have immediately moved to the reported location.
Although the suspected vandals reportedly fled before the troops arrived, the soldiers apprehended the motorcycle rider, identified as Aondoyima Agber, who was allegedly attempting to transport a section of the pipeline.
The suspect remains in military custody pending further directives, while troops have intensified patrols and security operations in the area to deter criminal activities and prevent further attacks on critical national infrastructure.
The task force said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to frustrate the activities of armed bandits, protect vital public assets and sustain security across its area of responsibility.
The Force Commander, JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, and General Officer Commanding (GOC), 5 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their prompt response and effective handling of the operation.
Gara described the intervention as a proactive step towards preventing the vandalism of critical national assets, warning individuals involved in the destruction or theft of public infrastructure to desist from such activities.
He stressed the importance of safeguarding vital national infrastructure, noting that attacks on such assets could undermine public safety, economic activities and national security.
The military commander also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security agencies to enable timely intervention.
Gara reiterated that sustained collaboration between security forces and local communities remained essential to identifying criminal elements, preventing infrastructure sabotage and maintaining peace across the task force’s operational area.
He assured residents of the troops’ continued commitment to protecting lives and property, while maintaining pressure on criminal groups operating within the region.
The military called on members of the public to support ongoing security efforts by providing credible intelligence that could help prevent pipeline vandalism and other threats to critical national infrastructure.
