Troops kill three kidnap suspects, dismantle illegal roadblock in Benue

By Benedicta Aboh

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have neutralised three suspected kidnappers in a coordinated security operation in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

Acting on credible intelligence, the troops—working alongside operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Zaki-Biam Division, and the Benue State Community Protection Guard—stormed the Aturuku–Wembe–Ayati corridor on Wednesday after reports indicated that an armed gang had mounted an illegal roadblock to ambush unsuspecting travellers.

According to a statement by the Acting Media Information Officer, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, the criminal group had been “dispossessing innocent commuters who unknowingly approached the blocked junction,” prompting a swift response from the joint security team.

“On making contact with the criminals, the troops engaged them decisively, resulting in the neutralisation of three criminals, while others fled into nearby bushes,” the statement read.

Two motorcycles allegedly used by the gang were recovered, while a manhunt has been launched for the fleeing suspects.

Preliminary findings revealed that the neutralised individuals were members of a notorious syndicate responsible for recurrent kidnappings and violent attacks in Ukum LGA, including recent abductions near the Zaki-Biam yam market. Community members identified the suspects as Sughter Abelebe and Sughnen Abelebe of Ugbaam Council Ward, and another male from Tse Kpeakaa, Kundav Council Ward.

Security sources further linked the gang to a feared bandit kingpin operating within the Shitile axis of Katsina-Ala LGA.

OPWS Commander, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their “synergy, courage, and discipline,” urging them to intensify intelligence-led missions to stabilise the region.

“OPWS remains unwavering in its commitment to defending lives, enhancing civil authority, and restoring lasting peace across the Joint Operations Area,” he said.

Lt. Zubairu also assured that troops would continue to dominate high-risk areas to dismantle criminal networks and boost public confidence in the affected communities.