•Accused by 'clients', detained by army

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested a soldier in Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State over his alleged involvement in illegal security duties linked to loggers operating in the area.

Sources disclosed on Wednesday that the soldier, attached to CSI Battalion IX, was apprehended at about noon by troops of Sector 1 OPWS deployed in Naka.

According to the sources, the soldier allegedly collected N20,000 from a group of loggers with a promise to provide security escort for their activities.

The sources said the loggers were later attacked by suspected militia elements, after which they accused the soldier of conspiring with the attackers.

“The soldier was arrested following allegations that he collected the sum of Twenty Thousand Naira from loggers with a promise to provide security,” the sources said.

They added that the incident came to light after the loggers were attacked by militias and subsequently raised suspicion over the role allegedly played by the soldier.

The military sources confirmed that the arrested personnel was currently in custody while further investigation into the allegations continued.

They reiterated the commitment of Operation Whirl Stroke to professionalism and accountability in ongoing security operations across Benue and adjoining states.

The sources added that any personnel found culpable of misconduct or activities capable of undermining military operations would face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with military regulations. (Zagazola, excluding headline)