Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have thwarted a major drug trafficking attempt in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, after intercepting a vehicle laden with substances suspected to be hard drugs.
The interception occurred on 14 October 2025 during a routine stop-and-search operation around Anguwan Malama in Akwanga Local Government Area. According to a statement by the Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the driver of an ash-coloured Toyota Solara with registration number KJA-108FY (Lagos) abandoned the vehicle and fled into nearby bushes upon sighting the troops.
Despite a swift pursuit, the suspect evaded arrest. However, a thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of several bags containing substances suspected to be marijuana. The vehicle and recovered exhibits are currently in military custody pending further investigation and handover to relevant authorities.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops through the Commander Sector 2, Brigadier General D.C. Nwakonobi, for their vigilance and professionalism, which led to the successful interception.
General Gara reaffirmed the determination of OPWS to deny criminal elements freedom of action while strengthening inter-agency collaboration to ensure continued safety and stability across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States.
