By Divine Sam.

Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation WHIRL STROKE, have foiled an alleged attempt to vandalise a pipeline in Gou community, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, arresting an 18-year-old motorcycle rider suspected of transporting a section of the pipeline.

The arrest was disclosed in a statement issued by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer at the headquarters of JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE.

According to the statement, the suspect was apprehended on October 20, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation aimed at preventing criminal activities and protecting critical national infrastructure.

The troops were reportedly conducting a fighting patrol when they received information about the activities of suspected pipeline vandals in the community.

Upon arriving at the location, the suspected vandals had fled. However, the soldiers arrested a motorcycle rider identified as Mr Aondoyima Agber, who was allegedly attempting to transport a section of the pipeline.

“The suspect is currently in custody, awaiting further directives, while troops continue to dominate the general area to deter criminal activities, prevent further attacks on critical national infrastructure and frustrate their operations,” the statement said.

The Force Commander of JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE and General Officer Commanding (GOC), 5 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their swift response.

Gara described the operation as a proactive step towards preventing the destruction of critical national assets and strengthening security in the affected area.

He warned individuals involved in the vandalism of public infrastructure to desist from such activities, stressing the importance of protecting facilities vital to the nation’s economic interests.

The military chief also called on residents to remain alert and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the appropriate security agencies.

He further emphasised that cooperation between security personnel and local communities remains essential to curbing criminal activities and maintaining peace across the Joint Task Force’s area of responsibility.

The operation forms part of ongoing military efforts to prevent attacks on critical infrastructure and disrupt criminal activities in Benue State and surrounding areas.