Troops Storm Makurdi Cult Hideout, Arrest 7, Recover Firearms and Charms
Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), have intensified their crackdown on criminal groups in Benue State with the arrest of seven suspected cultists and the recovery of firearms, ammunition, and charms during a raid on a notorious hideout in the North Bank area of Makurdi, the state capital.
The precision raid, carried out on 30 October 2025, is part of ongoing efforts by the military to curb the resurgence of cult-related violence, armed robbery, and drug abuse within the state capital and adjoining communities.
According to a statement by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, Operation WHIRL STROKE, the troops acted on credible intelligence that led them to a suspected cult base where armed youths were believed to be planning attacks on rival groups.
“During the operation, troops apprehended seven suspected cultists believed to be involved in a series of violent crimes,” the statement read. “Items recovered include two locally fabricated pistols, one laptop, one cartridge, one round of 7.62mm ammunition, an empty shell casing, a dagger, and several bags containing charms and other incriminating materials.”
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All suspects, the statement confirmed, are currently in military custody for further investigation and possible prosecution through relevant law enforcement agencies.
The Force Commander, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and vigilance, noting that the operation underscores the military’s resolve to rid Benue and surrounding states of criminal elements undermining peace and stability.
General Gara urged the operatives to sustain the operational momentum while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies and local communities to ensure the permanent dismantling of cult and criminal networks in the state.
He also issued a strong warning to youths, particularly students in tertiary institutions, to steer clear of cultism, drug abuse, and other social vices capable of destroying their future. “The path of patriotism, discipline, and lawful conduct remains the surest route to success and nation-building,” he said.
The Force Commander reiterated that Operation WHIRL STROKE will continue to maintain its offensive posture against bandits, insurgents, and cult gangs across its joint operations area, ensuring that citizens live in safety and peace.
Operation WHIRL STROKE, a joint military initiative covering Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, has over the years sustained coordinated operations aimed at restoring law and order in communities affected by banditry, cult violence, and other internal security threats.
By PRNigeria
