By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have intensified their crackdown on criminal elements in Benue State, recording another operational success following a precision raid on a suspected cultist hideout in the North Bank general area of Makurdi.
According to an official statement signed by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters JTF Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the operation was conducted on 30 October 2025 as part of ongoing efforts to curb criminality and restore peace within the state capital and its environs.
During the raid, troops apprehended seven suspected cultists believed to be involved in armed robbery, drug abuse, and cult-related violence. Items recovered from the hideout include two locally fabricated pistols, one laptop, one cartridge, one round of 7.62mm ammunition, one empty 7.62mm shell casing, one dagger, and several bags containing charms and other incriminating materials.
Lieutenant Zubairu disclosed that all the suspects are currently in custody for further investigation and possible prosecution by the appropriate law enforcement agencies.
The Force Commander, Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism, vigilance, and resilience in executing the operation. He urged them to sustain the momentum in the ongoing efforts to rid Benue and adjoining states of criminal elements threatening regional peace.
Major General Gara also appealed to youths, particularly students in tertiary institutions, to shun cultism, drug abuse, and other criminal activities that undermine national stability. He stressed the importance of discipline, patriotism, and respect for the rule of law as essential values for building a peaceful and secure society.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Operation Whirl Stroke to maintaining peace and stability across its Joint Operations Area, assuring residents of continuous collaboration with other security agencies to protect lives and property.
