Troops arrest two suspected criminal herders during harvest-season patrol in Makurdi

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified their harvest-season protection operations in Benue State with the arrest of two herders accused of trespassing and destroying crops on community farmlands in Makurdi.

The arrests were made on 20 November 2025 during a routine farm-protection patrol by OPWS troops deployed at Zongo Akiki. According to military officials, the suspects had allegedly led their cattle into cultivated farmlands belonging to local residents, causing damage to crops before they were intercepted.

The prompt response of the troops was said to have prevented further destruction and a potential confrontation between the herders and farmers in the area. The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue and legal processes are initiated.

Force Commander, Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, praised the personnel for their professionalism and vigilance. He urged residents to avoid taking the law into their hands when faced with disputes, warning that retaliatory actions only heighten tensions and undermine peaceful coexistence.

Major General Gara also advised herders to abide by the law and refrain from actions that endanger security or disrupt community livelihoods. He reaffirmed the commitment of Operation Whirl Stroke to protecting farmlands and ensuring a secure environment for farming and other legitimate activities throughout the harvest season.

The statement was issued by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu of the Headquarters Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, on 25 November 2025.