Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have intercepted a vehicle loaded with substances suspected to be hard drugs during a routine stop-and-search operation in Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
The incident occurred around Angguwan Mallama, when troops on duty flagged down an ash-coloured Toyota Solara with registration number KJA 108FY (Lagos).
According to a military statement, the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into nearby bushes upon sighting the troops.
Although soldiers launched an immediate pursuit, the suspect, according to the statement, managed to escape.
A thorough search of the vehicle uncovered several bags of suspected marijuana, which have been taken into military custody alongside the vehicle. The exhibits will be handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.
The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the personnel for their vigilance and professionalism, describing the successful interception as a boost to ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities in the region.
“Operation Whirl Stroke remains committed to denying criminal elements freedom of action and ensuring sustained safety and stability across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States,” he stated through the Commander of Sector 2, Brigadier General D.C. Nwakonobi.
The operation, as made known n the statement, forms part of the military’s broader strategy to curb drug trafficking and other forms of organized crime in Nigeria’s North Central region.