As part of ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities and restore peace in Makurdi and surrounding areas, troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), arrested seven suspected cultists following a precision raid on a suspected hideout in the North Bank general area of the state capital on October 30.

During the operation, security forces recovered a variety of weapons and incriminating items, including two locally fabricated pistols, a laptop, a cartridge, one round of 7.62mm ammunition, an empty 7.62mm shell casing, a dagger, and several bags containing charms and other materials linked to criminal activity.

All seven suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue, with possible prosecution by the relevant law enforcement authorities.

Major General Moses Gara, Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, commended the troops for their professionalism, vigilance, and resilience in carrying out the operation. He encouraged them to maintain their dedication in the ongoing fight against criminal elements threatening regional peace.

General Gara also appealed to youths, particularly students in tertiary institutions, to reject cultism, drug abuse, and other criminal behaviors. He stressed the importance of discipline, patriotism, and adherence to the rule of law in addressing conflicts, reaffirming the task force’s commitment to maintaining security across its Joint Operations Area.