Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested two herders for allegedly trespassing and destroying crops on community farmland in Makurdi, Benue State, as part of ongoing measures to protect farmers and ensure food security during the peak harvest season.
Spokesman for the operation, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday. He said the arrest occurred on 20 November 2025 when troops deployed at Zongo Akiki were conducting a routine farm protection patrol.
According to him, the soldiers intercepted the two herders after they reportedly led their cattle into cultivated farmlands belonging to local residents, resulting in damage to crops.
Zubairu said the prompt intervention of troops prevented further destruction and a possible confrontation between the herders and farmers.
“The suspects are currently in custody for further investigation and necessary legal action,” he added.
The Force Commander, Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and urged members of the public not to take the law into their hands when confronted with disputes or misunderstandings.
He warned that violence or reprisal attacks would only escalate tensions and undermine peaceful co-existence within affected communities.
Major General Gara also cautioned herders to be law-abiding and desist from actions capable of threatening peace and security.
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