Troops from the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have neutralized a suspected member of a terrorist gang believed to be involved in the killing of former Benue State Secretary to the Government (SSG), Prof. David Salifu. Prof. Salifu died after sustaining gunshot injuries during an attack by armed criminals earlier this month. According to OPWS, troops acted on credible intelligence and engaged the suspects in a gun battle at Jotar village in Ukum Local Government Area. During the encounter, one terrorist was reported neutralized. OPWS also said it recovered an AK-47 rifle and two empty magazines at the scene. Nigerian Eye reports that indicators suggest the individual may have been involved in the July 1 incident that killed Prof. Salifu and attacked commuters in Benue, while Daily Post Nigeria similarly states that the neutralized suspect was one of those responsible for the former SSG’s death. The outlets agree that the operation is part of OPWS efforts to deny criminal elements freedom of action in its area of operations.