Troops of operation Whirl stroke uncover illegal arms factory in Nasarawa

Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have recorded another major operational success with the discovery of an illegal arms manufacturing site in Nasarawa State.

The breakthrough occurred during a fighting and confidence-building patrol conducted by troops deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Idadu in Agwatashi, Doma Local Government Area of the state.

The patrol, aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of action, led to the uncovering of a concealed location suspected to be used for the illegal production of locally fabricated weapons. On approaching the area, the troops reportedly encountered several individuals who fled on sighting the patrol.

However, one suspect, identified as Baba Ogar, a 26-year-old male from Arusu village in Kokona Local Government Area, was arrested while attempting to evade arrest by hiding on top of a tree.

A search of the location resulted in the recovery of six locally fabricated pistols, assorted tools and equipment believed to be used for the manufacture of illegal weapons, the sum of ₦40,500 in cash, and a mobile phone found in the possession of the suspect.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the site served as an illegal arms production facility supplying firearms to criminal elements within and outside the area.

The arrested suspect is currently in custody, while investigations have been intensified to identify, track and arrest other accomplices who fled the scene.

Commending the troops, the Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, praised their professionalism, vigilance and sustained operational pressure, which led to the discovery of the illegal arms factory.

He urged the personnel to sustain the momentum and continue to rely on intelligence-driven operations to dismantle criminal networks within the Joint Operations Area.

Major General Gara also emphasised the importance of public cooperation, calling on residents to continue providing timely and credible information, noting that actionable intelligence remains critical to achieving lasting security and economic stability.

The operation was confirmed in a statement signed by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, on 26 January 2026.