Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have arrested a high-profile suspected criminal during an intelligence-led operation in Agasha Village, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, following a report of an attack on a local resident.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lt Ahmad Zubairu.
He explained that the operation was carried out on March 13, 2026, after security agencies received credible intelligence about an attack on Mr Shaapera Seeta Michael in Agasha Village.
According to him, troops of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Intervention Battalion XI, operating under Operation WHIRL STROKE, quickly mobilised to the area to track down the suspect linked to the assault.
Lt Zubairu said that on arrival, the troops secured the area to prevent the suspect from escaping while conducting a focused search aimed at identifying and apprehending the alleged attacker.
He noted that the suspected militia member, identified as Mr Suurnen David Akum, 27, from Agasha Village in Guma Local Government Area, was successfully arrested during the operation.
The spokesperson added that a locally fabricated rifle was recovered from the suspect at the time of his arrest.
He stated that the suspect is currently under investigation and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action after the process is concluded.
According to Lt Zubairu, the Force Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and tactical conduct, which led to the successful arrest of the suspect.
He also urged the troops to sustain the operational momentum and remain vigilant in ongoing efforts to prevent criminal elements from operating freely in the area.
