PHOTO: Dangote Truck Driver, Woman Killed in Benue

A Dangote truck driver and a woman have been killed by suspected criminal militia along the Kyado–Jootar road in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

The victims were reportedly discovered inside a Dangote truck by troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE during a night patrol along the route.

A security source disclosed that the incident occurred around midnight on Thursday, August 13, 2026, when troops conducting a fighting patrol discovered the bodies inside a Dangote truck with registration number OPL-1B-029 at Igbayima.

Preliminary findings indicated that the victims were allegedly killed by suspected criminal elements believed to be operating in the area and involved in kidnapping for ransom.

The identity of the woman and the circumstances that led to her presence in the truck remained unclear as of the time of filing this report.

Troops recovered 11 empty 7.62mm Special ammunition casings from the scene, suggesting that firearms were used in the attack.

The bodies were subsequently evacuated to the mortuary in Kyado, while the incident was reported to the police for further investigation.

Security forces have commenced efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the killings.

The latest incident has heightened concerns over the security of motorists and commercial transport operators using the Kyado–Jootar axis, which has reportedly witnessed attacks by criminal elements.

Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE are expected to intensify night patrols and other security operations along the route to track down the perpetrators, prevent further attacks and reassure residents and road users of their safety.