Soldiers foil militia attack on Benue APC primaries, arrest suspect

In a significant display of its commitment to internal security, Nigerian troops have successfully thwarted attempts to disrupt political processes and dismantled networks supporting terrorist activities. The swift action by troops of Operation Whirl Stroke in Benue State prevented armed militia from interfering with the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections, ensuring the integrity of the democratic exercise.

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In Benue State, on May 16, 2026, troops in Aliade, Gwer East LGA of Benue State, swiftly countered an armed militia group attempting to violently disrupt the ongoing All Progressives Congress primary elections. Troops engaged the militia, arrested one suspect, and recovered a getaway Sienna vehicle, an AK-47 rifle, magazines, and live ammunition.

The operation in Aliade, Gwer East Local Government Area, resulted in the apprehension of a suspect and the recovery of crucial weaponry, including an AK-47 rifle and ammunition. This decisive intervention underscores the military's role in safeguarding not only national security but also the stability required for political activities to proceed unimpeded. The recovery of a getaway vehicle further indicates the organized nature of the group that was intercepted.

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Troops of Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD targeted the underground networks facilitating communication, armaments, and medical/ drug logistics for active terrorist cells. On 14 May 2026, troops at FOB Kaiama arrested a terrorist operative who masterminded an earlier attack on police personnel at Tenebu village, following a communication intercept where the suspect explicitly described his role in the assault.

Beyond Benue, the troops of Operation Savannah Shield have intensified efforts to dismantle the support systems of terrorist organizations. By targeting underground networks involved in communication, arms supply, and medical logistics within Kwara State, the military is adopting a comprehensive strategy to combat insurgency. The arrest of operatives, including those linked to previous attacks on police personnel and high-ranking gang leaders, demonstrates progress in disrupting the operational capabilities of these groups. The ongoing operations reflect a determined effort by the armed forces to maintain peace and security across various regions of the country.

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Simultaneously, troops operating at Bokungi in Edu LGA arrested a high-ranking gang leader traveling toward Ilorin from Ndeji, whose mobile devices contained graphic digital evidence of the suspect brandishing automatic rifles and exhibiting large quantities of extorted cash.