By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation WHIRL STROKE, have intensified efforts to protect critical national infrastructure, arresting an 18-year-old suspect over an alleged pipeline vandalism attempt in Gou community, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.
The suspect, identified as Aondoyima Agber, was apprehended on October 20, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation after troops received information about the activities of suspected pipeline vandals in the community.
According to an official statement signed by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, the troops were conducting a fighting patrol when they received the report and moved to the area.
The statement disclosed that the suspected vandals had fled before the troops arrived, but Agber was arrested while allegedly attempting to transport a section of the pipeline on a motorcycle.
The suspect is currently in custody, awaiting further directives, as troops continue security patrols and surveillance across the area to deter criminal activities, prevent attacks on critical national infrastructure and frustrate the operations of armed bandits.
The Force Commander, JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, and General Officer Commanding (GOC), 5 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their prompt response, describing the operation as a proactive measure to prevent the vandalism of critical national assets.
Major General Gara warned individuals involved in the vandalism of public infrastructure to desist from such acts, stressing that protecting vital national assets was essential to safeguarding the country’s interests.
He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to combat criminality.
The Force Commander reiterated the importance of community cooperation in tackling criminal activities and sustaining peace and security across the Joint Task Force’s area of responsibility.
