Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), the joint military task force covering Nasarawa, Benue, and Taraba States, have neutralized three members of a notorious criminal syndicate during a fierce gun battle in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The criminals, who specialized in mounting illegal roadblocks and carrying out serial kidnappings, were killed when troops foiled an ambush they had set along the Aturuku–Wembe–Ayati road in Borkyo Council Ward.
In a statement issued on Friday by the acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the troops acting on credible intelligence and in coordination with other security agencies swiftly responded to the illegal roadblock erected by the gang.
“Upon sighting the criminals, our gallant troops engaged them decisively, killing three on the spot while others fled with gunshot wounds into nearby bushes,” the statement said.
Community members later identified two of the dead suspects as Sughter Abelebe and Sughnen Abelebe, both from Ugbaam Council Ward, while the third was from Tse Kpeakaa in Kundav Council.
Investigations revealed that the slain criminals belonged to a syndicate responsible for a wave of abductions, particularly around the Zaki-Biam yam market axis. Sources further linked the gang to a wanted bandit kingpin operating in the Shitile area of neighbouring Katsina-Ala LGA.
Two motorcycles used by the criminals were recovered at the scene, while intensive search operations continue for the fleeing members.The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their courage, discipline, and professionalism. He praised the synergy among security agencies and urged continued intelligence-driven operations to dominate troubled areas.
Maj. Gen. Gara reiterated OPWS’s commitment to protecting lives, supporting civil authority, and restoring lasting peace across the joint operations area.
The Sankera axis (comprising Ukum, Logo, and Katsina-Ala LGAs) has in recent months witnessed intensified military operations against armed bandits and kidnappers.
Just last month, OPWS troops raided a hideout in Mbagen community, Ukum LGA, killing one bandit while the gang leader narrowly escaped.
Residents of Ukum LGA have expressed relief over the latest operation, with many calling for sustained military presence to end years of criminal siege in the area.
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