Troops Nab Cattle Rustlers, Miscreants in Benue
Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested suspected cattle rustlers linked to violent activities in Benue State, following two separate security incidents in Guma Local Government Area.
Security sources disclosed that on February 15, 2026, troops swiftly responded to a distress call over an attack on herders at Amua Village, situated along the Daudu–Umenger/Ukpiam axis. The assault resulted in the death of one herder, while another sustained gunshot wounds.
The injured victim was immediately evacuated to Keana in neighbouring Nasarawa State for urgent medical treatment. The remains of the deceased were subsequently released to community representatives for burial in accordance with local customs.
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In a related development on the same day, troops stationed at Ukpiam acted on credible intelligence provided by local youths regarding suspected cattle rustling in the area. The operation led to the arrest of a 23-year-old suspect, Terngu Aondohemba, who reportedly confessed to killing two cattle belonging to Fulani herders.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect allegedly named two accomplices, identified as Akpehe and Ashinge, who are currently at large.
Further investigations led the troops to Korje Village in Daudu, where Mrs. Mercy Onban, wife of the alleged buyer of the stolen meat, was apprehended. Recovered meat suspected to be from the rustled cattle was also secured as exhibits. Both suspects remain in custody pending further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, condemned the attacks and criminal acts, reiterating the resolve of the Joint Task Force to stem killings and cattle rustling within its Joint Operations Area.
He called on community leaders and residents to deepen cooperation with security agencies, emphasizing that timely and credible intelligence sharing remains vital to restoring sustainable peace. Major General Gara further reassured law-abiding citizens of the task force’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the region.
By PRNigeria
