Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intercepted a vehicle loaded with substances suspected to be hard drugs during a routine stop-and-search operation in Akwanga, Nasarawa State.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the operation took place on October 14, 2025, around Anguwan Malama in Akwanga Local Government Area.
Zubairu said 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 managed to escape.
“A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of several bags containing substances suspected to be marijuana,” the statement read.
He added that the vehicle and the recovered items have been taken into military custody for further investigation and would be handed over to relevant authorities for appropriate action.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their vigilance, resilience, and professionalism, which led to the successful interception.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Operation Whirl Stroke to sustain the fight against criminal activities, strengthen inter-agency collaboration, and ensure the safety and stability of communities across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba states.