Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Jevaun Rhashan
Troops of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have arrested a suspected militia member during a targeted security operation in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, as part of ongoing efforts to combat armed criminal groups and restore stability in communities affected by violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region.
Military authorities said the arrest followed an intelligence-driven operation carried out in Agasha Village on March 13, 2026, after security agencies received reports of an attack on a local resident. According to military officials, the assault on the victim prompted an immediate response from troops deployed in the area under Operation WHIRL STROKE.
The operation was launched after credible information reached security forces indicating that a resident identified as Mr. Shaapera Seeta Michael had been attacked in Agasha Village. Details about the circumstances surrounding the assault have not yet been fully disclosed, but authorities said the report triggered a rapid deployment of troops assigned to track down the suspect believed to be responsible.
Soldiers from the Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion XI, operating under the command structure of Operation WHIRL STROKE, were mobilised shortly after the report was received. The troops moved swiftly to the affected community with the objective of locating and apprehending the alleged attacker before he could evade capture.
Upon arrival in Agasha Village, the troops reportedly established a security cordon around key areas of the community in order to prevent the suspect from escaping. The cordon-and-search approach allowed soldiers to conduct a systematic search of locations where the suspect was believed to be hiding.
During the operation, the troops successfully identified and apprehended a suspect believed to be linked to the assault. Military officials confirmed that the individual arrested was Mr. Suurnen David Akum, a 27-year-old resident of Agasha Village in Guma Local Government Area.
Authorities also reported that a locally fabricated rifle was recovered from the suspect at the time of his arrest. Locally produced firearms are frequently encountered during security operations in parts of Nigeria, where such weapons are sometimes manufactured and circulated through informal networks that supply armed groups.
Security officials believe the recovery of the weapon may assist investigators in determining whether the suspect was involved in other criminal activities or attacks within the region. The weapon has been taken into custody for further examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
Following his arrest, Mr. Akum was taken into military custody, where he is currently undergoing preliminary investigation. Military authorities said the suspect will later be handed over to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for further legal proceedings once initial inquiries are completed.
The arrest forms part of broader security operations conducted by Operation WHIRL STROKE across parts of Benue and neighboring states. The joint military task force was established to combat armed banditry, militia violence, and other forms of criminal activity that have affected communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
Benue State has in recent years experienced periodic outbreaks of violence involving armed groups, communal conflicts, and criminal gangs operating in rural communities. These incidents have often involved attacks on villages, farms, and travellers, prompting increased security deployments across the region.
Operation WHIRL STROKE, which brings together multiple security agencies under a coordinated command structure, has been tasked with restoring law and order through a combination of patrols, intelligence-led operations, and rapid response deployments. Military officials say such operations are designed to deter attacks, disrupt criminal networks, and reassure residents living in areas vulnerable to violence.
The Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops involved in the Agasha operation for their discipline and tactical efficiency. According to a statement issued by the task force headquarters, the commander praised the soldiers’ professionalism in executing the mission and successfully apprehending the suspect.
Major General Gara emphasized that swift responses to security threats are essential to maintaining stability in communities affected by criminal activities. He encouraged troops operating under the task force to sustain the current operational momentum and remain vigilant while carrying out their duties.
The commander also reiterated the importance of intelligence gathering and cooperation between security agencies and local communities. Authorities say timely information from residents often plays a critical role in enabling security forces to respond quickly to incidents and track down suspects involved in attacks.
Stone Reporters note that recent operations carried out by troops under Operation WHIRL STROKE have resulted in a series of arrests, weapon recoveries, and the disruption of suspected criminal networks operating in parts of Benue State. Security analysts say such targeted operations are a key component of broader efforts aimed at reducing violence and restoring confidence among residents.
Residents in Guma Local Government Area have long faced security challenges linked to armed groups and sporadic attacks on rural communities. The continued presence of military forces in the area is intended to deter criminal activities while supporting civil authorities in maintaining public order.
Authorities say investigations into the incident involving Mr. Shaapera Seeta Michael and the subsequent arrest of the suspect are ongoing. Officials indicated that further details may emerge as investigators continue questioning the suspect and reviewing evidence related to the case.
Security agencies have also reiterated calls for members of the public to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. Officials say community cooperation remains essential in identifying criminal elements and ensuring that security forces can respond effectively to emerging threats.
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