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Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Whirl Stroke have intensified operations against criminal elements fueling violence in Benue State, rescuing an injured herder and arresting suspects involved in cattle rustling in Guma Local Government Area.
On February 15, troops responded swiftly to an attack on two herders at Amua Village along the Daudau–Umenger/Ukpaiam axis. One herder was killed during the assault, while the second sustained gunshot injuries. The injured herder was evacuated to Keana in Nasarawa State for urgent medical treatment. The body of the deceased was handed over to community representatives for burial in line with local customs.
In a separate intelligence-led operation on the same day, soldiers acted on credible information provided by local youths concerning suspected cattle rustling. A 23-year-old suspect, Terngu Aondohhemba, was arrested after allegedly confessing to killing two Fulani-owned cattle. Further investigations led troops to Korjie Village in Daudau, where Mrs. Mercy Onban, wife of the alleged buyer of the stolen meat, was apprehended. Recovered meat exhibits were secured, and both suspects remain in custody pending further investigation. Two other suspects, identified as Akpehe and Ashinghe, are still at large.
Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, condemned the violence and vowed that perpetrators would be pursued and brought to justice. He commended the role of local youths and community members in providing timely intelligence, stressing that sustained collaboration between security forces and residents remains critical to restoring peace.
“Timely intelligence sharing is key to curbing criminality in the region,” General Gara said, while reassuring residents of the task force’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Benue.
The operations underscore the military’s renewed focus on tackling armed banditry, cattle rustling, and inter-communal violence in flashpoint areas of the state. Security agencies continue to urge communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly.
