Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, have warned criminal elements fuelling violence in Benue State to desist, following swift action in Guma Local Government Area.
On February 15, troops responded to an attack on two herders at Amua Village along the Daudu–Umenger/Ukpiam axis. One herder was killed, while the second sustained gunshot injuries and 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 accordance with local customs.
In a separate operation on the same day, soldiers acted on intelligence provided by local youths concerning suspected cattle rustling.
A 23-year-old suspect, Terngu Aondohemba, was arrested after allegedly confessing to killing two Fulani-owned cattle. Two other suspects, identified as Akpehe and Ashinge, remain at large.
Further investigations led troops to Korje Village in Daudu, 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.
The 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 called on community leaders to strengthen collaboration with security agencies, emphasising the importance of timely intelligence-sharing in restoring peace.
He reassured residents of the task force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the region.
