Troops Bust Notorious Gang, Restore Security on Roads in Benue’s Ukum LGA

Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force’s Zaki-Biam Division and the Benue State Community Protection Guard, successfully dismantled a notorious gang that had been blocking roads and targeting travellers in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. The operation, carried out on 11 December 2025 following reliable intelligence, focused on an illegal roadblock along the route connecting Aturuku, Wembe, and Ayati villages.

According to Lt. Zubairu Zubairu, Ag Media Information Officer of JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, the gang had been ambushing and dispossessing unsuspecting travellers. During the engagement, three gang members were neutralised while others fled into nearby bushes. Two motorcycles used by the criminals were recovered, and a search is ongoing for those who escaped.

Investigations revealed that the neutralised suspects were part of a criminal syndicate responsible for repeated kidnappings and general insecurity in Ukum LGA, particularly around the Zaki-Biam yam market. Community members later identified two of the deceased as Sughter Abelebe and Sughnen Abelebe from Ugbaam Council Ward, with a third individual from Tse Kpeakaa, Kundav Council Ward. The group is also believed to have links to a known bandit kingpin operating in the Shitile axis of Katsina-Ala LGA.

Major General Moses Gara, Force Commander of OPWS, commended the troops for their courage, discipline, and professionalism. He urged continued intelligence-led operations and a strengthened security presence in high-risk areas, reaffirming the task force’s commitment to protecting lives, supporting civil authority, and restoring lasting peace across the Joint Operations Area.