Benue Offensive: Troops Strike Pre-Farming, Dismantle Criminal Hubs

Operation Whirl Stroke Intensifies Pre-Farming Offensive in Benue State

Troops conducting Operation Whirl Stroke have significantly ramped up their efforts in Benue State, launching a proactive offensive aimed at securing the upcoming farming season. This intensified campaign has seen the dismantling of criminal networks, the neutralization of a suspected bandit, and the apprehension of multiple individuals involved in various illicit activities.

The operation’s Acting Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, confirmed these developments, emphasizing that the intelligence-led patrols are strategically designed to preempt threats before the commencement of the farming season. The primary objective is to ensure the safety and security of agrarian communities, who are particularly vulnerable during this critical period.

Key Operations and Successes:

Lieutenant Zubairu detailed several successful engagements that underscore the effectiveness of the ongoing operations against cattle rustlers and armed bandits.

• March 23: Cattle Rustling Interception and Arrests

  • Acting on vital intelligence provided by residents of Anyiin, troops stationed at Ayilamo intercepted suspected cattle rustlers on the Anyiin-Ugba road.
  • In a collaborative operation with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps Agro Rangers, four suspects were apprehended.
  • The suspects were found in possession of the remains of butchered cows.
  • The arrested individuals were subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and legal proceedings.
  • Arrangements were made to provide veterinary care for any livestock that sustained injuries during the incident.

• Criminal Hideout Raided in Otukpo

  • Troops from the Forward Operating Base in Otukpo, bolstered by a Quick Response Group, executed a raid on a known criminal hideout located at Amla Icho.
  • While some individuals managed to evade capture, five suspects were successfully apprehended.
  • The items recovered from the hideout included:
    • Locally fabricated firearms
    • Mobile phones
    • Illicit drugs
    • Spent cartridges

• Further Clearance Operations and Neutralization

  • Additional clearance operations were conducted in the villages of Mbapa and Mbabuande, leading to further arrests.
  • During one encounter, an armed suspect attempted to disarm a soldier. In the ensuing brief exchange, the suspect was neutralized. The remaining members of the gang managed to escape.

• Herder Rescue Operation

  • In a separate humanitarian effort, troops rescued an injured herder identified as Idris Abubakar.
  • Mr. Abubakar had been attacked while he was tending to his cattle.
  • He was promptly evacuated and is currently receiving medical treatment.

• Additional Cattle Rustler Arrests

  • In another significant development, three individuals suspected of cattle rustling were arrested at Zongo Akiki.
  • These suspects have also been transferred to police custody for onward processing.

• March 24: Foiled Rustling Attempt

  • The operations continued into March 24, when troops on night patrol in Uhembe village successfully thwarted another cattle rustling attempt.
  • The suspects fled the scene upon the troops’ arrival, abandoning the stolen cattle and a vehicle.
  • Both the livestock and the vehicle were recovered by the troops.

Community Collaboration and Strategic Importance:

Lieutenant Zubairu highlighted the crucial role of robust collaboration with local communities in achieving these successes. He stated that the intelligence provided by residents has been instrumental in enabling swift and precise responses to criminal activities.

The pre-farming offensive is considered particularly vital in Benue State. This region has historically experienced escalations in farmer-herder clashes, especially during planting seasons. Such conflicts pose a significant threat to food security and often result in the displacement of residents. By addressing these security concerns proactively, Operation Whirl Stroke aims to mitigate these risks and ensure a stable environment for agricultural activities.

Commitment to Long-Term Stability:

The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, has reaffirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to maintaining these intelligence-driven operations. He emphasized the dedication to ensuring a peaceful and secure environment that is conducive to farming and the promotion of long-term stability throughout Benue State. The sustained efforts are geared towards creating a lasting sense of security for all residents, particularly those involved in the agricultural sector.