Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have intensified intelligence-driven operations across Benue State, recording major breakthroughs against criminal networks in a pre-wet season offensive aimed at securing farming communities. The coordinated operations, conducted between March 23 and 24, 2026, targeted cattle rustlers, armed bandits and other criminal elements, resulting in multiple arrests, recovery of weapons and rescue of victims. On March 23, troops stationed at Ayilamo, acting on credible intelligence from residents, launched a joint raid with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Agro Rangers along the Anyiin–Ugba road. Four suspects were apprehended with remains of butchered cattle and subsequently handed over to the police for further investigation. Injured livestock recovered during the operation were also treated by veterinary personnel to support lawful economic activities. In a separate operation, troops from the Forward Operation Base (FOB) Otukpo, supported by a Quick Response Group, stormed a criminal hideout in Amla Icho. Although some suspects fled into nearby bushes, five individuals were arrested. Security operatives recovered locally fabricated firearms, mobile phones, hard drugs and spent cartridges, indicating the group’s involvement in wider criminal activities. Further clearance patrols in Mbapa and Mbabuande villages led to the arrest of four additional suspects. During one encounter, an armed suspect who attempted to disarm a soldier was neutralised in a brief exchange of fire, while other gang members escaped. Troops also responded to a distress call involving an injured herder, identified as Idris Abubakar, who was attacked while tending cattle. He was promptly evacuated for medical treatment. In another incident, three suspected rustlers were arrested in Zongo Akiki and handed over to the police. The following day, March 24, troops on night patrol in Uhembe village foiled another cattle rustling attempt. The suspects fled, abandoning stolen cattle and a getaway vehicle, all of which were recovered. Military authorities attributed the successes to strengthened collaboration with local communities, whose timely intelligence has enabled swift and effective responses. The pre-wet season offensive is considered critical in Benue State, where clashes between farmers and herders often intensify during planting periods, posing threats to food security and livelihoods. The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations to guarantee a peaceful farming season and long-term stability in the region.
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