Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke Nab Armed Suspects, Recover AK-47 in Benue Security Operation

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) on Wednesday apprehended two suspected armed men during a coordinated patrol designed to curb criminal activities in Benue State.

The arrests took place along key access routes leading into Makurdi, the state capital, as part of an intensified effort to dismantle illegal roadblocks and restrict the movement of armed elements within the troops’ Area of Responsibility (AOR).

The suspects have been identified as 42-year-old Mr. Felix Agbako, a farmer from Abiam Village in Gwer East Local Government Area, and Mr. Tsekaa Kyaan, also 42, a driver from Tse-Adam Village in Makurdi LGA.

A stop-and-search operation conducted on their vehicle—a blue Toyota Camry with registration number Lagos FST 733 GL—led to the discovery of an AK-47 rifle and a magazine loaded with 7.62mm special rounds, concealed within the vehicle.

The mission was carried out under the leadership of Captain Miri-Dashe from the 401 Special Forces Brigade, with operational support from Captain Iyamba. The patrol also included operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), Keystone, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The two suspects, along with the recovered weapon and ammunition, are currently in custody pending further investigation and subsequent legal action as directed by relevant security agencies.

Reacting to the development, the Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Kolo Gara, praised the professionalism and swift execution by the joint security team.

He reaffirmed the operation’s determination to root out criminal elements and safeguard communities across Benue State and neighboring regions.

General Gara also extended his appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for their unwavering support and the continued provision of critical resources that enable OPWS to carry out its mission.