Troops of the Nigerian Army’s Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, have arrested two suspected logistics suppliers allegedly linked to a bandit leader operating in Benue State, as security operations against criminal networks continue across the state.
The suspects, identified as Tertser Terngu, 24, and Aondongu Tersoo, 15, were arrested in Abaji community following intelligence reports received by soldiers of Sector 1 of the task force.
According to the military, both suspects are residents of Tersoo Village and were allegedly involved in providing logistical support to a bandit kingpin operating across River Yooyo in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
The two suspects have been taken into custody for investigation and further processing by the appropriate authorities.
The arrests form part of ongoing military efforts to disrupt the supply networks that support armed groups and enable them to sustain their criminal activities in affected communities.
Two robbery suspects apprehended in separate operation
In a related development, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have reported another security breakthrough following a response to an alleged armed robbery in Jootar Village, Ukum Local Government Area.
The incident occurred along the Kyado–Wukari Road, where troops on a fighting patrol received information about the reported robbery and immediately proceeded to the location.
On arrival, the soldiers discovered that members of the local Volunteer Guards had already apprehended two suspected armed robbers.
Items recovered from the suspects included a locally made pistol, seven rounds of 7.62mm PKT ammunition and a pair of scissors.
The recovery of the weapon and ammunition is expected to assist ongoing investigations into the alleged robbery and establish whether the suspects have links to other criminal activities in the area.
Army commander commends troops
The Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE and General Officer Commanding, 5 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their efforts in the separate operations.
Gara urged personnel to maintain the momentum of their operations, remain vigilant and strengthen intelligence gathering to identify and apprehend individuals suspected of involvement in criminal activities.
He also emphasised the importance of timely intelligence in tackling banditry, armed robbery and other security threats across the task force’s area of responsibility.
Benue State has continued to face security challenges in several communities, with military formations and local security groups working to contain attacks and disrupt criminal networks.
The latest arrests underscore the importance of coordinated security operations and intelligence sharing in efforts to improve safety across the state.
The suspects remain subject to investigation, and the allegations against them have yet to be established in court.
