Troops under Operation Whirl Stroke, OPWS, the joint military outfit overseeing security operations in Nasarawa, Benue, and Taraba States, have neutralised three suspected criminals during an operation in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The individuals eliminated were said to be part of a feared criminal network long blamed for recurring insecurity and persistent kidnapping incidents across Ukum.
This was disclosed in a statement released on Friday by the acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu.
He explained that the troops, acting on intelligence and working in collaboration with other security agencies, successfully repelled an attempted ambush plotted by the gang.
According to the statement, “The security team moved swiftly to confront a criminal group that had erected an illegal roadblock along the route connecting Aturuku, Wembe and Ayati villages in Borkyo Council Ward, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.”
The military added that the troops immediately engaged the criminals after encountering them at the illegal checkpoint.
“On making contact with the criminals, the troops engaged them decisively, resulting in the killing of three criminals, while others fled into nearby bushes.”
Lt. Zubairu further revealed that intelligence gathered after the operation confirmed that the deceased were members of a dangerous syndicate heavily involved in kidnappings and violent crimes within the LGA.
“Subsequent findings revealed that the three killed individuals belonged to a notorious syndicate responsible for widespread insecurity, including repeated kidnappings across Ukum LGA.
Their activities are believed to be connected to recent abduction cases reported around the Zaki-Biam yam market vicinity.”
Community members later identified the suspects as Sughter Abelebe and Sughnen Abelebe, both from Ugbaam Council Ward, while the third individual was traced to Tse Kpeakaa in the Kundav Council area.
One portion of the statement also disclosed that the gang has ties to a well-known bandit leader terrorising the Shitile axis of Katsina-Ala LGA.
Two motorcycles were seized during the operation, while the manhunt for the fleeing accomplices remains active.
Maj. Gen Moses Gara, the OPWS Force Commander, commended the coordinated effort of the security teams, praising their discipline, bravery, and professionalism.
He urged them to sustain momentum, expand intelligence-driven missions, and strengthen their presence in areas vulnerable to attacks.
General Gara reiterated that OPWS remains committed to safeguarding communities, supporting civil authorities, and restoring enduring peace across its operational zones.
OPWS has intensified operations in the Sankera region in recent months. In November, troops stormed the hideout of a notorious armed gang in Mbagen Community, Ukum LGA, killing one suspect while the gang leader narrowly escaped.
Three criminals shot dead as military foils ambush in Benue
