Troops of Joint Task Force under Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested a suspected militia member during a security operation in Benue State.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to a statement issued by Ahmad Zubairu, acting media information officer of the task force, the suspect was apprehended during an intelligence-led operation in Agasha village in Guma Local Government Area of the state.
Zubairu said the operation was launched on March 13 after security agencies received credible information about an assault on a resident identified as Shaapera Michael in the community.
Troops from the Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion XI, operating under Operation Whirl Stroke, were immediately deployed to the area to track down the suspect. During the operation, the soldiers reportedly sealed off the area and conducted a targeted search to prevent the suspect from escaping.
The suspect, identified as Suurnen David Akum, 27, from Agasha village in Guma LGA, was eventually arrested by the troops. Security operatives also recovered a locally fabricated rifle from him during the operation.
Authorities said the suspect is currently undergoing investigation and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action once preliminary inquiries are completed.
Moses Gara, force commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, commended the troops for their professionalism and tactical approach during the operation. He also urged security personnel to sustain ongoing efforts aimed at preventing criminal elements from operating freely in communities across the state.
Benue State has faced recurring security challenges involving militia groups and armed attacks on rural communities, prompting intensified military operations in several parts of the state.
