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The Benue State Commissioner of Police, CP Emenari Ifeanyichukwu, has commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for his unwavering commitment and support in the ongoing battle against armed herdsmen and banditry across the state.
CP Emenari gave the commendation on Monday while briefing journalists in Makurdi on the current security situation. He highlighted that security agencies are working in strong synergy with other outfits, including troops of Operation Whirl Stroke, to secure rural communities and eliminate criminal elements.
The police boss stressed that security forces have continued to respond promptly to emerging threats, particularly banditry linked to armed herders and local gangs in parts of the state. He disclosed that regular joint patrols involving the police, military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Benue State Civil Protection Guards are being conducted across vulnerable communities.
He further revealed that the Nigeria Police Force has deployed its air component for aerial surveillance and support, while tactical teams, including the Special Intervention Squad and Counter Terrorism Unit, remain active in high-risk areas.
Addressing a recent attack in Asakpa, Ojantelele, and Okpete communities in Apa Local Government Area on June 13, which claimed the lives of six villagers, CP Emenari confirmed that coordinated operations—supported by drone surveillance—were launched immediately. The attackers, who fled into nearby forests, are being tracked, and additional reinforcements have since been deployed to prevent further incidents.
The commissioner cautioned residents against the politicization and exaggeration of security incidents, urging them instead to provide credible and useful information to security agencies to aid proactive responses.
Also speaking, a representative of Operation Whirl Stroke disclosed that additional troops have been deployed to Kwande Local Government Area to secure vulnerable communities and block criminal entry and exit routes.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, both security leaders expressed confidence that the ongoing joint operations would further restore peace and stability throughout Benue State.
The commendation and updates come amid persistent calls for sustained federal and state collaboration to address the root causes of insecurity and protect farming communities in the state.
