Benue: Troops Arrest Cattle Rustlers, Dismantle Bandit Networks Ahead of Farming Season
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have arrested suspected cattle rustlers and dismantled bandit networks across Benue State in a series of intelligence-led operations ahead of the 2026 farming season.
The military said the operations, conducted between March 23 and 24, were part of a pre-wet season offensive aimed at securing agrarian communities and preventing a resurgence of farmer-herder violence.
At Ayilamo, troops acting on credible intelligence from residents, in collaboration with operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Agro Rangers, intercepted suspected rustlers along the Anyiin–Ugba road. Four suspects were arrested with butchered cattle and handed over to the police for further investigation. Injured livestock recovered during the operation were treated.
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In a separate raid, troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Otukpo, supported by a Quick Response Group, stormed a suspected criminal hideout at Amla Icho. Five suspects were arrested, while others fled. Recovered items included locally made firearms, mobile phones, hard drugs and spent cartridges.
Clearance operations in Mbapa and Mbabuande communities led to the arrest of four additional suspects. During one encounter, a suspect who attempted to disarm a soldier was shot dead, while others escaped.
Troops also rescued an injured herder, Idris Abubakar, who had been attacked while grazing cattle. He was evacuated for medical treatment. In another operation, three suspected rustlers were arrested at Zongo Akiki and handed over to the police.
On March 24, troops on night patrol at Uhembe village foiled a rustling attempt, forcing suspects to abandon stolen cattle and a vehicle, which were recovered.
The military attributed the successes to actionable intelligence provided by local communities, noting that the collaboration has enhanced operational effectiveness.
The Force Commander, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, said the operations would be sustained to ensure a secure environment for farming activities and prevent criminal groups from disrupting the planting season.
He added that troops remain committed to maintaining pressure on criminal elements and restoring lasting peace across the state.
By PRNigeria
