Troops Arrest Three Suspects, Recover AK-47 in Benue Offensive
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested three suspected terrorists and recovered an AK-47 rifle with ammunition during a pre-wet season offensive operation aimed at securing farming communities.
The operation, carried out on March 26, 2026, by troops of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Intervention Battalion XI, was part of ongoing clearance efforts targeting identified flashpoints within the Joint Operations Area.
Acting on credible intelligence about the presence of suspected terrorists in the Agasha general area, the troops advanced tactically to the location and swiftly cordoned off the vicinity. The operation led to the arrest of three suspects identified as Sule Ibrahim and Salmanu Risko, both from Nasarawa State, and Abdulkareem Haruna from Jos.
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Items recovered during the raid include one AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and 27 rounds of 7.62mm x 39 ammunition. Other items seized were a Tecno mobile phone, a cutlass, ten sachets of alcohol, and assorted charms.
Military authorities confirmed that the suspects are currently in custody undergoing preliminary investigation and will be handed over for prosecution in line with extant laws.
The operation forms part of intensified efforts by troops to dominate the operational environment, deny criminal elements freedom of movement, and ensure improved security ahead of the farming season.
The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and resilience, noting that their continued sacrifices are critical to safeguarding law-abiding citizens across the theatre.
