Troops Foils Pipeline Vandalism, Arrests 18-Year-Old Suspect in Benue
Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation WHIRL STROKE, have foiled an alleged pipeline vandalism attempt in Gou community, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, arresting an 18-year-old motorcycle rider suspected of attempting to transport a section of the pipeline.
The suspect, identified as Aondoyima Agber, was apprehended on October 20, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation following reports of suspected pipeline vandalism in the community.
According to the task force, the troops were conducting a fighting patrol when they received intelligence about the activities of suspected vandals in the area.
Upon arriving at the reported location, the troops discovered that the suspected vandals had fled. However, they arrested Agber, who was allegedly attempting to transport a section of the pipeline on a motorcycle.
The suspect is currently in custody, awaiting further directives, while troops have intensified their presence in the area to prevent further criminal activities and protect critical national infrastructure.
The Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE and General Officer Commanding (GOC), 5 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their swift response, describing the operation as a proactive step towards preventing the vandalism of critical national assets.
Gara warned individuals involved in the destruction or theft of public infrastructure to desist from such activities, emphasising the importance of protecting national assets.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and activities to the appropriate security agencies.
The commander further stressed that cooperation between security agencies and host communities remains essential to tackling criminality and sustaining peace and security across the task force’s area of responsibility.
