Nigerian Troops Neutralise Three Suspected Bandits, Recover Motorcycles in Benue

Nigerian troops have eliminated three suspected bandits and seized two motorcycles during an operation in Benue State’s Ukum Local Government Area, authorities said Friday.

According to a statement issued in Makurdi by Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer for Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), the raid was conducted on Thursday with support from the Nigeria Police Force and the Benue State Community Protection Guards.

Zubairu reported that the joint team moved in after receiving intelligence on the presence of armed men operating an illegal roadblock along the route linking Aturuku, Wembe, and Ayati villages in the Borkyo council ward.

Zubairu said intelligence reviewed that the armed gang had been ambushing and dispossessing innocent travellers who unknowingly approached the blocked junction.

“On making contact with the criminals, the troops engaged them decisively, resulting in the neutralisation of three criminals, while others fled into nearby bushes.

“In the course of the operation, two motorcycles used by the criminals were recovered, and a heightened search effort is currently under way to locate and apprehend those who fled.

“Subsequent findings revealed that the three neutralised individuals belonged to a notorious syndicate responsible for widespread insecurity, including repeated kidnappings across Ukum LGA.

“Their activities are believed to be connected to recent abduction cases reported around the Zaki-Biam Yam Market vicinity,” he said.

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

The Force Commander, OPWS, Maj-Gen Moses Gara, applauded the synergy amongst the security personnel and commended their courage, discipline, and professional conduct throughout the mission.

Gara encouraged the troops to maintain the operational drive, deepen intelligence-led operations, and reinforce security presence in high-risk communities.

The commander reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of OPWS to defending lives, enhancing civil authority, and restoring lasting peace across the joint operation areas. 

NAN