Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have neutralized one of the suspected terrorists believed to be involved in the attack that claimed the life of former Benue State Secretary to the Government, Prof. David Salifu.
According to the military, the troops acted on credible intelligence about the movement of suspected kidnappers in Jotar village, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. Upon arrival, they engaged the armed men in a gun battle, resulting in the death of one suspect.
Security operatives recovered an AK-47 rifle and two empty magazines from the scene. The military stated there are strong indications that the neutralized suspect was part of the gang responsible for attacks on commuters earlier this week, including the one that led to the death of Prof. Salifu.
Prof. Salifu was attacked while travelling from Wukari to Makurdi. Reports indicate that gunmen intercepted his vehicle, attempted to force him onto a motorcycle, and shot him in the process. He was first treated at a hospital in Wukari before being transferred to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi, where he sadly passed away despite medical efforts to save his life.
Operation WHIRL STROKE has reiterated its commitment to tracking down criminal elements and restoring security across Benue State and other parts of its operational area.
