Troops of Sector 1 under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested a herdsman in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State over claims of destroying cultivated farmland. The suspect was reportedly found grazing cattle on a farm, causing significant damage to crops.
According to security expert Zagazola Makama, the incident occurred around 12:00 p.m. on May 3, 2026. Troops stationed at Anule responded swiftly to a distress call from affected residents and moved to the scene, where the herder was apprehended. He was later handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation and necessary action.
This arrest highlights the persistent challenge of farmer-herder tensions in parts of Benue State. Operation Whirl Stroke, a joint military task force, continues to intensify efforts to maintain peace and prevent escalation of such conflicts between farming and herding communities. Authorities have indicated that additional measures are being put in place to promote peaceful coexistence and protect farmlands while addressing security concerns in the area.
Residents have expressed ongoing worries about farmland encroachment even as security patrols remain active in vulnerable communities.
