Troops Intercept Rustlers, Neutralise Terrorists in Benue Security Raids
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius BENUE, Nigeria – Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE intercept suspected cattle rustlers, arrest suspects and eliminate terrorists during coordinated security operations across Benue State, Nigerian authorities say.
The operations, carried out between March 3 and March 7, disrupt criminal activities in several communities, according to a statement released Sunday by the task force’s Acting Media Information Officer, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu.
During a patrol near Obagaji in Agatu Local Government Area, troops of the Chief of Army Staff Special Intervention Battalion IX arrest three suspected cattle rustlers and recover stolen livestock.
Zubairu says the patrol follows intelligence reports about rustling activities around the Omikwidi area.
Security personnel later intercept a Toyota Sienna vehicle transporting three fully grown cows believed to have been stolen.
“The suspects were apprehended at the scene while attempting to transport the animals using a vehicle with a fake Kogi State Government number plate,” Zubairu says.
Authorities identify the suspects as Mamuda Hussein, 28; Sunday Moses, 35; and Teny Musa, 22, all from communities within the area.
Investigators say the alleged gang leader, Hussein, claims he was invited to purchase the cattle by two individuals identified as Dahiru and Small.
In a separate operation on March 4, troops of the COAS Intervention Battalion XV ambushed suspected terrorists near Abuja Village following intelligence about armed movements.
Troops engage the group in a firefight, killing one suspect while others flee.
“A search of the area leads to the recovery of 7.62mm special ammunition from the deceased suspect,” Zubairu adds.
The task force also repels another attack on March 5 when suspected terrorists attempt to assault troops stationed in Abuja Village.
Force Commander Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara assures residents that security operations will continue.
“We remain committed to protecting lives and property and urge citizens to provide credible intelligence,” he says.
About the Author
Korede Abdullah 
Otamere Gladness 
Oluwafunbi Bello 