By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have foiled a drug trafficking attempt in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, after intercepting a vehicle loaded with substances suspected to be hard drugs during a routine stop-and-search operation. The incident occurred on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, around Anguwan Malama in Akwanga Local Government Area.
According to an official statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the operation was part of the troops’ continuous efforts to curb criminal activities, including the movement of illicit substances across the region.
He revealed that the driver of the ash-coloured Toyota Solara with registration number KJA-108FY (Lagos) abandoned the vehicle and fled into the nearby bushes upon sighting the troops. Despite a prompt pursuit, the suspect managed to evade arrest.
“A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of several bags containing substances suspected to be marijuana,” Lt. Zubairu stated. He added that the vehicle and recovered exhibits are currently in military custody for further investigation and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for prosecution.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops through the Commander, Sector 2, Brigadier General D.C. Nwakonobi, for their vigilance, resilience, and professionalism, which led to the successful interception.
Major General Gara reiterated the unwavering commitment of Operation WHIRL STROKE to deny criminal elements freedom of action, disrupt all forms of illegal activities, and strengthen inter-agency cooperation in the fight against insecurity and transnational crimes.
He assured residents of Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States that the Joint Task Force will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations to ensure peace, stability, and the protection of law-abiding citizens across its area of responsibility.
“The troops remain resolute in their mission to secure our communities and dismantle all criminal networks operating within the region,” the statement concluded.
