Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have intensified intelligence-driven operations across Benue State, dismantling criminal networks and thwarting cattle rustling activities in a major pre-wet season security push aimed at safeguarding farming communities.
The coordinated offensive, conducted on 23 March 2026, saw troops at Ayilamo respond swiftly to actionable intelligence from residents of Anyiin on suspected rustling activities along the Anyiin–Ugba road. In a joint raid with operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Agro Rangers, four suspects were apprehended with remnants of butchered cattle. The suspects were subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation, while troops also facilitated veterinary care for injured livestock to support lawful economic activities.
In a separate operation, troops of the Forward Operation Base (FOB) in Otukpo, backed by a Quick Response Group, stormed a criminal hideout at Amla Icho. Although some suspects fled, five were arrested. Recovered items included locally fabricated firearms, mobile phones, hard drugs, and spent cartridges, indicating the group’s involvement in wider criminal enterprises.
Further clearance patrols in Mbapa and Mbabuande villages led to the arrest of four additional suspects. During one encounter, an armed suspect attempted to disarm a soldier but was neutralised in a brief exchange, while other members of the gang escaped.
Troops also recorded a humanitarian success, rescuing an injured herder, identified as Idris Abubakar, who had been attacked while tending his cattle. He was evacuated for prompt medical attention. In Zongo Akiki, three suspected rustlers were also arrested and transferred to police custody.
Operations continued into 24 March, when a night patrol in Uhembe village foiled another rustling attempt. Suspects fled the scene, abandoning stolen cattle and a vehicle, both of which were recovered by troops.
Military authorities attributed the successes to strong collaboration with local communities, whose timely intelligence has enhanced operational effectiveness. The pre-wet season offensive comes at a critical time, as farmer-herder conflicts typically intensify during planting periods, posing threats to food security and rural stability.
The Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustaining the momentum through intelligence-led operations to ensure a peaceful farming season and long-term stability in the region.
