Suspected cultist arrested in Benue with a forged pistol

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) arrested a suspected cultist and seized a locally manufactured pistol and ammunition in Katsina‑Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

The information was shared in a post on X on Tuesday by security analyst Zagazola Makama.

Makama said the arrest took place on June 22 at approximately 7:10 p.m. during a security operation by Sector 1 OPWS troops in the area.

Security sources indicated that the suspect was apprehended following intelligence that linked him to cult‑related activities contributing to insecurity in the local government area.

Makama wrote that items recovered from him included one locally fabricated pistol, two cartridges, and a bag containing suspected personal belongings.

A source said the suspect is in custody while investigations continue to determine his level of involvement and to identify possible accomplices.

The source added that the suspect is under investigation to establish his role and to identify other persons connected to his activities.

Security authorities said the arrest is part of ongoing efforts to curb cultism and other criminal activities in Benue State and neighboring areas.

They added that Operation Whirl Stroke has intensified patrols and intelligence‑led operations to maintain peace and improve security in its area of responsibility.