During an operation towards a hitch-free yuletide season, Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), neutralized three criminals in Ukum Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Acting Media Information Officer, OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu and made available to newsmen in Makurdi.

The statement said the success was achieved after 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 security team was said to have 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.

According to intelligence assessments, 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, resulting in the neutralisation of three criminals, while others fled into nearby bushes.

In the course of the operation, two motorcycles used by the criminals were recovered, and a heightened search effort is currently under way to locate and apprehend those who fled.

Subsequent findings revealed that the three 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 was said to 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, who is known to operate within the Shitile axis of Katsina-Ala LGA.

The Force Commander, Joint Task Force OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, has applauded the synergy amongst the security personnel and commended their courage, discipline, and professional conduct throughout the mission.

He encouraged the troops to maintain the operational drive, deepen intelligence-led operations, and reinforce security presence in high-risk communities.

Gara reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of OPWS to defending lives, enhancing civil authority, and restoring lasting peace across the Joint Operations Area.