Troops neutralise 3 suspected kidnappers in Benue

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have neutralised three armed criminals during a coordinated security operation at Ukum junction in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, said on Friday that the troop acted on credible intelligence, working alongside the Nigeria Police Force, Zaki-Biam Division, and […]

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have neutralised three armed criminals during a coordinated security operation at Ukum junction in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, said on Friday that the troop acted on credible intelligence, working alongside the Nigeria Police Force, Zaki-Biam Division, and the Benue State Community Protection Guard to achieve the feat.

He said that based on the intelligence, the troops on Thursday moved to confront a criminal gang that had mounted an illegal roadblock along the Aturuku–Wembe–Ayati axis in Borkyo Council Ward of Ukum LGA.

The statement explained that the gang had reportedly been ambushing and robbing unsuspecting travellers at the blocked junction and on sighting the troops, the criminals opened fire, prompting a swift response from the security team.

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“Three members of the gang were neutralised in the encounter, while several others escaped into surrounding bushes. Troops also recovered two motorcycles used by the criminals. A manhunt is ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects,” the statement added.

Zubairu further stated that preliminary investigations indicated that the neutralised individuals belonged to a notorious syndicate responsible for repeated kidnappings and violent attacks across Ukum LGA, including recent abduction cases near the Zaki-Biam yam market.

It disclosed that some community members later identified the deceased suspects as Sughter Abelebe and Sughnen Abelebe from Ugbaam Council Ward, and a third individual from Tse Kpeakaa, Kundav Council Ward.

The dread group, according to the statement were also believed to be linked to a wanted bandit kingpin operating in the Shitile axis of Katsina-Ala LGA.

Meanwhile, the Force Commander of Joint Task Force OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, has commended the troops for their professionalism, gallantry, and swift response.

He urged them to sustain the heightened operational tempo, intensify intelligence-led operations, and reinforce security presence in vulnerable communities.

Gara reaffirmed OPWS’s commitment to protecting lives, supporting civil authority, and restoring peace across the Joint Operations Area.