Soldiers Neutralize Bandit Kingpin in Benue Operations

On August 19, 2026, troops from the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), engaged in operations in Benue State, resulting in the neutralization of a suspected bandit kingpin and the arrest of two kidnappers. According to Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the Acting Media Information Officer for OPWS, troops intercepted a suspected bandit, nicknamed ‘Cool Nigga’, at an illegal checkpoint along the Jortar–Atume axis.

A firefight ensued, leading to the suspect's death, while other gang members fled, abandoning a motorcycle that was subsequently recovered by the troops. In a separate operation in Gou, Logo Local Government Area, two suspects, Terhile Iyo (44) and Vershima Emmanuel (32), were arrested for attempting to kidnap Mrs. Balame Nyikwagh.

Recovered items included a locally made pistol, a cartridge, five Tecno torchlight phones, an ATM card, an identity card, multiple SIM cards, and charms. The suspects are currently in military custody for further investigation.