Benue Troops Arrest Cattle Rustling Suspects, Rescue Injured Herder in Security Operations
Troops from the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have conducted decisive security operations in Benue State, resulting in the arrest of cattle rustling suspects and the rescue of an injured herder. These actions aim to disrupt the cycle of violence that has been fueling unrest in the region.
Swift Response to Herder Attack in Amua Village
According to a statement released on Monday, February 16, 2026, by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the Acting Media Information Officer for HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, troops responded promptly to an attack on herders at Amua Village. This village is situated between Daudu and Umenger/Ukpiam within Guma Local Government Area.
The incident, which occurred on February 15, led to the tragic death of one herder, while another sustained serious gunshot wounds. The injured victim was immediately evacuated to Keana in neighbouring Nasarawa State for urgent medical treatment. The remains of the deceased were handed over to community representatives for burial in accordance with local customs, respecting traditional practices during this difficult time.
Arrests Made in Cattle Rustling Operation
In a related development on the same day, troops stationed at Ukpiam acted on intelligence provided by vigilant youths concerning suspected cattle rustling activities. This proactive move led to the arrest of a 23-year-old suspect identified as Terngu Aondohemba.
During interrogation, Aondohemba reportedly confessed to killing two cattle belonging to Fulani herders. He also implicated two accomplices, Akpehe and Ashinge, who remain at large and are currently being pursued by security forces.
Further investigations directed troops to Korje Village in Daudu, where Mrs. Mercy Onban, the wife of the alleged buyer of the stolen meat, was apprehended alongside recovered meat exhibits. Both suspects are now in custody pending further investigation and legal proceedings.
Force Commander Reaffirms Commitment to Peace
Major General Moses Gara, the Force Commander of the Joint Task Force, has strongly reaffirmed the commitment of Operation WHIRL STROKE to halting the incessant killings of innocent persons and combating cattle rustling in the Joint Operations Area. He condemned the violence and criminality in unequivocal terms, warning that perpetrators would be relentlessly pursued and brought to justice.
Major General Gara further called on community leaders to strengthen collaboration with security agencies, emphasising that timely intelligence sharing remains critical to restoring lasting peace in the region. He reassured law-abiding residents of the strong resolve of the Joint Task Force to safeguard lives and property across Benue State and surrounding areas.
These operations highlight the ongoing security challenges in Benue, where conflicts over resources like cattle often escalate into violence. The swift actions by troops demonstrate a concerted effort to address both immediate threats and underlying criminal activities that fuel regional instability.
