Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have apprehended two suspected armed men in Benue State during a routine anti-criminal patrol, marking a significant security breakthrough.
The arrest, which took place on Wednesday, 3rd July 2025, was executed by a joint security team comprising personnel from the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Keystone operatives.
The operation targeted illegal checkpoints and criminal movements along key routes into Makurdi, the state capital.
The suspects, identified as Felix Agbako, a 42-year-old farmer from Abiam Village in Gwer East Local Government Area, and Tsekaa Kyaan, a 42-year-old driver from Tse-Adam Village in Makurdi LGA, were intercepted in a blue Toyota Camry with Lagos registration number FST 733 GL.
During a search of the vehicle, security operatives recovered an AK-47 rifle and a loaded magazine containing 7.62mm special ammunition, concealed inside the car.
The operation was led by Captain Miri-Dashe of the 401 Special Forces Brigade, with support from Captain Iyamba and other security personnel.
Following the arrest, the suspects and the recovered items were taken into custody for further investigation.
Reacting to the development, the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Kolo Gara, commended the swift and coordinated efforts of the security team. He emphasized the commitment of OPWS to deny criminals safe havens across Benue State and the broader region.
General Gara also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for their continued support in providing resources that strengthen the mission to secure lives and property.