Troops Arrest Two Suspected Cattle Thieves in Benue State

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have apprehended two suspected cattle thieves during a routine patrol in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, as part of ongoing efforts to combat criminal activity in the region.

The arrest, which took place on Saturday, July 6, followed a reinforcement mission in support of the Nigeria Police, who had earlier encountered armed herders near Udei Village.

According to military sources, the troops intercepted two men identified as Raymond Abina, 32, and Sunday Faga, 21, both residents of Ukohol Village. The suspects were riding a motorcycle and carrying a sack containing freshly butchered cow meat.

During interrogation, the suspects claimed to have purchased the meat from a Fulani herder in the forest. However, preliminary investigations conducted by the troops traced the meat to a stolen cow that had been reported missing from Tse Pokiau Village near Daudu.

Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, confirmed the arrest and stated that the suspects would be handed over to the relevant authorities for prosecution once investigations are concluded.

"The rising incidence of cattle rustling and jungle justice are serious threats to the peace and security of Benue State," General Gara said. He urged residents to shun unlawful acts and instead collaborate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activity in their communities.

This arrest comes amid increasing concerns about livestock theft in the region, which has often contributed to tensions between farming communities and herders. Security experts note that cattle rustling has become a significant driver of rural insecurity in parts of the Middle Belt region.

The Operation Whirl Stroke is a military operation established to address security challenges in Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba states, focusing on armed banditry, communal clashes, and other forms of criminality.

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