By Reportcircle Abuja
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have intensified security across Benue State’s farmlands as the harvest season peaks, arresting two criminal herders who invaded and destroyed crops in Makurdi on 20 November 2025.
The arrests were made during a routine farm-protection patrol by OPWS troops deployed at Zongo Akiki, where soldiers intercepted the herders after they allegedly led their cattle deep into cultivated lands belonging to local farmers.
The swift action prevented further crop damage and a potential clash between the herders and angry residents.
The suspects are currently in custody as investigations commence ahead of appropriate legal action.
Reacting to the incident, Force Commander, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the soldiers for their vigilance and professionalism.
He urged communities to avoid reprisals or mob action, noting that self-help only escalates tension and threatens long-term peace.
General Gara stressed that herders must respect the law and desist from acts that endanger lives, destroy livelihoods or fuel insecurity.
“Reprisal attacks will only worsen tensions. We will continue to ensure farmlands remain safe so that farmers can harvest without fear,” he said.
With food security now a national priority, OPWS pledged continued support to farming communities across Benue and neighbouring states.
The Commander assured that more patrols, surveillance and rapid-response operations will be deployed throughout the harvest period.
Operation WHIRL STROKE, a Joint Task Force, has been instrumental in stabilising parts of Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba amid persistent farmer herder tensions.
