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Nigerian Army troops have foiled an ambush and dismantled a notorious gang linked to widespread insecurity in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
Ag. Media Information Officer, HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), Lieutenant Zubairu Zubairu, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, December 11, 2025, noting that the armed gang had mounted an illegal roadblock where they ambushed and dispossessed unsuspecting travellers of their valuables.
According to the statement, the troops engaged the criminals in a gun battle, resulting in the neutralisation of three gang members, while others fled into nearby bushes.
“Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), in a coordinated effort with the Nigeria Police Force, Zaki-Biam Division, and the Benue State Community Protection Guard, executed a well-planned operation on 11 December 2025 after receiving reliable intelligence,” the statement read.
“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 LGA.
“Intelligence assessments revealed that the armed gang had been ambushing and dispossessing innocent travellers who unknowingly approached the blocked junction.
“On making contact with the criminals, the troops engaged them decisively, neutralising three members of the gang while others escaped into the surrounding bushes. During the operation, two motorcycles used by the criminals were recovered, and a heightened search effort is ongoing to locate and apprehend those who fled.
“Subsequent findings revealed that the neutralised 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 deceased suspects as Sughter Abelebe and Sughnen Abelebe, both from Ugbaam Council Ward, and a third individual from Tse Kpeakaa, Kundav Council Ward. Sources have also linked the group to a notorious bandit kingpin operating within the Shitile axis of Katsina-Ala LGA.”
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, applauded the synergy among security personnel and commended their courage, discipline, and professionalism throughout the mission.
He urged the troops to maintain operational momentum, deepen intelligence-driven operations, and reinforce security presence in high-risk communities. Major General Gara reaffirmed OPWS’s unwavering commitment to defending lives, supporting civil authority, and restoring lasting peace across the Joint Operations Area.
