Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested three suspected criminals found with arms in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.
The acting Media Information Officer of the operation, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Friday, saying the suspects were picked up on Wednesday, November 5, during a routine patrol along the Otukpo–Enugu Road, specifically around the Amoda area.
According to him, the three suspects — John Isaac (22), Baba Emmanuel (17), and Sunday Thomas (19), all from Otukpo LGA — were stopped for a search after intelligence reports indicated suspicious movements.
“The suspects, identified as John Isaac (22 years), Baba Emmanuel (17 years), and Sunday Thomas (19 years)… were stopped for a search based on intelligence while riding a motorcycle.
“Sequel to the search, the troops recovered three mobile phones and the sum of ₦20,200 from the suspects,” the statement said.
Zubairu stated that early findings suggest the trio was on their way to commit a criminal act before they were intercepted by the troops. They are now in custody undergoing further investigation.
He added that the Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their swift action and professionalism, noting that their timely intervention helped prevent a potential threat.
Gara also encouraged the soldiers to maintain operational pressure and step up surveillance, especially to protect rural communities and farmers during the harvest period.
Operation Whirl Stroke, he said, remains fully committed to ensuring stability and safeguarding residents across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States.
The arrests come just days after a deadly attack in Ohimini LGA that left four people dead. Confirming the killings, the council chairman, Adole Gabriel, said, “Two farmers were killed on Monday and another two on Tuesday afternoon.”
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