Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) on Wednesday, apprehended two suspected armed men during a coordinated security patrol aimed at curbing criminal activities in Benue State.

The arrest was made around major access routes leading into Makurdi, the state capital.

The suspects were identified as 42-year-old Mr. Felix Agbako, a farmer from Abiam Village in Gwer East Local Government Area, and Mr. Tsekaa Kyaan, also 42, a driver from Tse-Adam Village in Makurdi LGA.

The operation was part of ongoing efforts to dismantle illegal roadblocks and restrict the movement of armed elements within the troops’ Area of Responsibility (AOR).

During the stop-and-search procedure, security personnel uncovered an AK-47 rifle and a magazine filled with 7.62mm special rounds.

The weapon and ammunition were hidden in a blue Toyota Camry bearing the registration number Lagos FST 733 GL.

The mission was executed under the direction of Captain Miri-Dashe of the 401 Special Forces Brigade, with backing from Captain Iyamba.

It was a collaborative effort involving personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS), Keystone operatives, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Both suspects, along with the recovered items, are currently in custody pending further investigation and legal action as directed by the appropriate security authorities.

Reacting to the operation, the Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Kolo Gara, commended the swift and professional conduct of the security team.

He reiterated the operation’s unwavering commitment to flushing out criminal elements and securing communities across Benue and beyond.

Major General Gara also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for their continued support and provision of vital resources enabling OPWS to fulfill its mandate.