Troops Eliminate Armed Criminal in Benue, Nab Gunman at Nasarawa Market
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have recorded fresh operational successes in Benue and Nasarawa States, neutralizing an armed criminal and arresting another suspect found with a locally fabricated pistol.
In a statement by the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the troops on 15 October 2025 conducted a deliberate ambush operation east of Ayilamo, within Tombo Council Ward of Logo Local Government Area in Benue State.
During the encounter, troops made contact with armed criminal elements, leading to the neutralization of one suspect, while others escaped with gunshot wounds. Items recovered from the scene include one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and 14 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Lieutenant Zubairu said the troops have maintained domination of the general area, conducting further patrols to reassure local communities and bolster public confidence in ongoing security operations.
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In a separate operation in Nasarawa State, troops of Sub-Sector 2, deployed at Maraba Udege Community in Nasarawa Local Government Area, responded to a distress call from Maraba Market on the same day. Reports indicated that a man was in possession of a pistol within the market premises.
On arrival, the troops arrested the suspect, identified as Mr. Ramanu Elizabeth, and recovered a locally fabricated pistol. The suspect and the weapon 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. He urged them to sustain the momentum of operations to ensure the safety of law-abiding citizens and enable them to carry out legitimate activities without fear.
According to the statement, investigations and follow-up operations are ongoing, as troops continue to collaborate with local security stakeholders and community leaders to gather actionable intelligence, disrupt criminal networks, and restore normalcy across the Joint Operations Area.
Operation Whirl Stroke reiterated its commitment to protecting innocent lives and maintaining pressure on criminal elements threatening peace and security in the region.
