Troops arrest two herders for destroying farmlands in Makurdi

Troops under the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, have apprehended two herders accused of invading community farmlands and damaging crops during a routine harvest-season patrol in Makurdi, Benue State.

The arrests were made on November 20, 2025, after personnel stationed at Zongo Akiki spotted the suspects allegedly grazing their cattle on farmlands cultivated by residents.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the operation’s spokesperson, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, said, “In a sustained effort to protect farmers and guarantee food security during the peak of the harvest season, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested two herders who were found trespassing and destroying crops on a community farmland in Makurdi, Benue State.

“The vigilant troops intercepted the two herders after they reportedly led their cattle into cultivated farmlands belonging to local residents, resulting in damage to crops.”

He added that the soldiers’ prompt response helped forestall further destruction and prevented a potential clash between the herders and farmers.

According to him, the suspects have been detained for investigation and possible prosecution.

The Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for acting with discipline, urging locals to avoid taking matters into their own hands whenever conflicts occur. He stressed that retaliatory actions often worsen disputes and jeopardise peaceful living.

Gara also reminded herders to obey the law and avoid conduct that could disrupt order or endanger communal peace. He restated the task force’s dedication to securing farmlands and maintaining a safe environment for economic activities.

IDOMA VOICE gathered that troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3, also operating under Operation Whirl Stroke, apprehended a suspected kidnap kingpin in Southern Taraba on November 23, 2025. The suspect, identified as Alhaji Abubakar Bawa, was arrested in Wukari Local Government Area while attempting to escape.

Investigations suggest he is connected to Umar Musa, another notorious kidnapping suspect arrested by the brigade a day before, on November 22, 2025.

Early findings reveal that both men are allegedly linked to a wider criminal network involved in multiple kidnappings, violent attacks, and other organised crimes across the region.

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