Troops under Operation Whirl Stroke have disrupted a criminal gang that had turned Ukum junction in Benue State into a dangerous trap for unsuspecting travellers.
The swift operation, carried out with support from the Police Division in Zaki-Biam and the Benue Community Protection Guard, prevented what authorities described as “a coordinated kidnapping waiting to happen.”
Security officials acted after receiving detailed intelligence about an illegal checkpoint set up along the corridor linking Aturuku, Wembe and Ayati communities.
The gang had allegedly been stopping vehicles, robbing commuters and attacking those who resisted.
A senior security source involved in the operation said the team moved in immediately once the location was confirmed.
“Our men confronted the criminals head-on and ensured the route was secured,” the source said. “We will not allow these gangs to suffocate rural communities.”
Three suspects were killed during the exchange, while the rest of the gang fled into the surrounding forests.
Moreover, two motorcycles believed to have been used to terrorise commuters were recovered. Security operatives have since launched a manhunt for the fleeing members.
Preliminary findings revealed that the neutralised suspects were part of a syndicate blamed for repeated kidnappings and violent attacks across the Ukum Local Government Area.
Investigators also believe the group may be tied to recent abductions near the busy Zaki-Biam yam market.
Residents later identified two of those killed as Sughter Abelebe and Sughnen Abelebe from Ugbaam council ward.
The third suspect was traced to Tse Kpeakaa in the Kundav axis. Furthermore, intelligence reports linked the entire gang to a notorious bandit leader operating within the Shitile enclave of Katsina-Ala.
Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, applauded the seamless collaboration among the security agencies.
He described the mission as a testament to what coordinated intelligence and swift response can achieve.
“Our personnel showed remarkable courage and professionalism,” Gara said. “We will keep up this momentum until every community in the operations area feels safe again.”
Gara also stressed that OPWS remains committed to safeguarding residents, supporting civil authorities and ensuring lasting stability in the region.