RismadarVoice Reporters
October 21, 2026
Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, have foiled a suspected pipeline vandalism attempt in Gou community, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, leading to the arrest of an 18-year-old suspect.
The suspect, identified as Aondoyima Agber, a commercial motorcycle rider, was apprehended on Tuesday, October 20, during an intelligence-led military operation aimed at protecting critical infrastructure in the community.
The Acting Media Information Officer of Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday.
According to Zubairu, troops conducting a fighting patrol received intelligence about the activities of suspected pipeline vandals in the area.
Acting on the information, the soldiers immediately moved to the reported location to investigate the suspected criminal activity and prevent further damage to the infrastructure.
However, the suspected vandals reportedly fled before the soldiers arrived.
During the operation, troops arrested Agber, who was allegedly attempting to transport a section of the pipeline using his motorcycle.
The military spokesperson said the suspect was taken into custody pending further directives from the appropriate authorities.
He added that troops had intensified their presence in the area to prevent further incidents of vandalism, protect critical national infrastructure and disrupt other criminal activities.
The Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE and General Officer Commanding, 5 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for responding promptly to the intelligence report.
Gara described the operation as part of the military’s preventive measures against the destruction and illegal removal of public infrastructure.
He warned individuals engaged in vandalism to desist, stressing that damage to critical national assets could undermine essential services and public safety.
The commander also emphasised the importance of intelligence gathering and cooperation between security agencies and local communities in addressing criminal activities.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security personnel.
According to Gara, information provided by residents remains an important component of operations aimed at preventing crime and maintaining peace across communities within the task force’s area of responsibility.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustained patrols and security operations to protect lives, property and important public infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the circumstances surrounding Agber’s alleged involvement remain subject to investigation.
The army has not announced any conviction or disclosed whether additional suspects have been apprehended in connection with the incident.
