Troops Intercept Drug-Laden Vehicle in Akwanga as Suspect Escapes

 

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation from criminal activities, as they successfully intercepted a vehicle loaded with substances suspected to be hard drugs during a routine operation in Akwanga, Nasarawa State.

 The operation, which took place on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, around the Anguwan Malama area of Akwanga Local Government, resulted in the recovery of several bags of suspected marijuana, further affirming the military’s sustained efforts in combating illicit drug trafficking in the North-Central region of Nigeria.

According to an official statement released by the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the troops were conducting a stop-and-search exercise at a checkpoint when an ash-coloured Toyota Solara with registration number KJA-108FY (Lagos) approached the security post. Upon sighting the troops, the driver, believed to be a drug courier, immediately abandoned the vehicle and fled into the surrounding bushes. Despite a swift pursuit by the soldiers, the suspect managed to escape, taking advantage of the thick vegetation and rugged terrain in the area.

The troops acted promptly to secure the abandoned vehicle and conducted a thorough search, which led to the discovery of several large bags containing substances suspected to be marijuana. The vehicle and the seized exhibits were subsequently taken into custody for preliminary investigation. Military sources revealed that arrangements have been made to hand over the recovered items to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further testing and possible prosecution of the individuals involved once identified.

The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops involved in the operation for their vigilance, discipline, and professionalism. He praised their swift reaction, noting that their alertness and dedication prevented the illicit substances from reaching their destination. Through the Commander of Sector 2, Brigadier General D. C. Nwakonobi, the Force Commander expressed appreciation for the troops’ resilience and sense of duty, which led to the success of the operation.

Major General Gara noted that the interception underscores the ongoing commitment of Operation Whirl Stroke to ensure safety, stability, and law enforcement across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States. He stated that the operation represents not just a victory over drug traffickers but also a warning to criminal elements operating in the region that the military remains proactive, determined, and capable of dismantling all forms of illegal activity that threaten peace and public safety.

He further emphasized that the success was made possible through enhanced collaboration and intelligence sharing among security agencies. He explained that the Joint Task Force continues to work closely with the NDLEA, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security institutions to track, intercept, and disrupt criminal networks involved in smuggling, drug trafficking, and other unlawful acts. This inter-agency cooperation, according to him, has been vital in strengthening security operations and ensuring more effective responses to emerging threats.

Major General Gara also reassured the residents of the operational areas that the troops would continue to maintain an active presence, conducting both day and night patrols, stop-and-search duties, and intelligence-driven missions. He stated that the safety and well-being of law-abiding citizens remain a top priority and urged the public to continue cooperating with the military by providing credible and timely information about suspicious activities or individuals within their communities.

He noted that the fight against drug trafficking is critical to maintaining national security because drug abuse and the illegal drug trade often serve as funding sources for other crimes, including terrorism, banditry, and armed robbery. He therefore reiterated the military’s zero-tolerance policy toward drug trafficking and its commitment to dismantling the networks responsible for the distribution of illegal substances across the region.

Security experts have described the latest interception in Akwanga as another important milestone in the ongoing battle against narcotics in Nigeria. They believe that such coordinated efforts by the military and other security agencies not only help to curb the circulation of illicit drugs but also reduce the influence of criminal organizations that rely on the proceeds of drug sales to finance their operations. They further urged the government to sustain support for security forces and ensure that the collaboration among agencies remains strong.

Residents of Akwanga and its environs have also expressed appreciation to the troops for their continued efforts in maintaining law and order. Some community members noted that the visible presence of security personnel in the area has greatly improved the sense of safety and reduced the movement of suspicious individuals at night. They appealed for the operation to be extended to other parts of the state, where drug trafficking and related crimes are still a concern.

The successful operation by the troops of Operation Whirl Stroke once again highlights the importance of constant vigilance and proactive security measures in curbing criminal activities.

 It also serves as a reminder that the military’s dedication to protecting the nation’s territorial integrity goes beyond combating insurgency — extending to the suppression of drug trafficking, smuggling, and other acts that endanger national stability. The seizure in Akwanga stands as a significant achievement in the continuous fight against the spread of illicit substances and the criminal networks behind them.