Nigeria, Nov. 1 -- Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested seven suspected cultists during a raid on a hideout in the North Bank area of Makurdi, Benue State.

The operation, carried out on Thursday, led to the recovery of two locally made pistols, a cartridge, a round of 7.62mm ammunition, a dagger, charms, and other incriminating items.

Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Ahmad Zubairu, said the suspects are in custody for further investigation.

According to him, the Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops' "professionalism, vigilance, and resilience," urging them to sustain efforts against criminal elements.

He added that Mr Gara appealed to youths, particularly students, to steer...