By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intensified their harvest-season security operations with the arrest of two suspected criminal herders who were allegedly found trespassing and destroying crops on community farmlands in Makurdi, Benue State. The incident, which occurred on 20 November 2025, took place during a routine farm protection patrol conducted by OPWS personnel deployed at Zongo Akiki.
According to an official signed statement by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu of Headquarters Joint Task Force (OPWS), the vigilant troops intercepted the suspects after they reportedly led a herd of cattle into cultivated farmlands belonging to local residents, resulting in significant crop damage. The swift and professional intervention of the troops prevented further destruction and a potential clash between the herders and the affected farmers.
The two suspects have since been taken into custody for further investigation and appropriate legal action.
Reacting to the development, the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their vigilance and professionalism in de-escalating the situation. He appealed to members of the public, particularly farmers and local communities, to avoid resorting to self-help or violence when confronted with disputes, noting that such actions heighten tensions and threaten peaceful co-existence.
Major General Gara reiterated the need for herders to conduct their activities responsibly and lawfully, stressing that criminal conduct, including farmland encroachment and deliberate crop destruction, would not be tolerated.
The Force Commander reaffirmed OPWS’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding farmlands, protecting rural livelihoods and ensuring a peaceful environment for legitimate social and economic activities to thrive throughout the harvest season and beyond.
