Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation WHIRL STROKE, have foiled an alleged pipeline vandalism attempt at Gou community in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, apprehending an 18-year-old motorcycle rider suspected of transporting a section of the pipeline.
The operation, conducted on October 20, 2026, followed intelligence received by the troops during a fighting patrol about the activities of suspected pipeline vandals in the community. According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the troops moved to the reported location but found that the suspected vandals had fled.
However, the troops apprehended the motorcycle rider, identified as Mr Aondoyima Agber, who was allegedly attempting to transport a section of the pipeline. The statement said the suspect was currently in custody, awaiting further directives, while troops continued to dominate the general area to deter criminal activities and prevent further attacks on critical national infrastructure.
It added that the sustained military presence was also aimed at frustrating the operations of armed bandits and maintaining peace and security within the Joint Task Force’s area of responsibility.
The Force Commander, JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, and General Officer Commanding, 5 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their prompt response, describing the operation as a proactive step towards preventing the vandalism of critical national assets.
Major General Gara warned individuals involved in the destruction or vandalism of public infrastructure to desist from such acts, stressing the importance of protecting vital national assets. He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to combat criminality.
The Force Commander further emphasised the importance of cooperation between security agencies and host communities in tackling criminal activities and sustaining peace and security across the Joint Task Force’s area of responsibility.
