Desist or face consequences – Military issues fresh warning to criminals behind Benue violence
Major General Urges End to Violence in Benue Valley
The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF), Major General Moses Gara, has issued a stern warning to those instigating unrest in the Benue Valley. He urged them to cease their activities immediately or face severe consequences.
In a statement, Major General Gara reaffirmed the commitment of “Operation WHIRL STROKE” to combat the ongoing killings of innocent residents and the rampant cattle rustling in Benue State. He condemned the persistent acts of violence and criminal behavior, emphasizing that those responsible will be apprehended and held accountable for their actions.
This warning follows the swift response of troops to two separate security incidents in Guma Local Government Area. During one operation, soldiers rescued a wounded herder and detained individuals linked to cattle theft.
According to a statement from Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer at the JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, troops received reports on February 15, 2026, regarding an attack on two herders in Amua Village, located between Daudu and Umenger/Ukpiam in Guma LGA. Troops stationed at Umenger promptly responded and confirmed that one herder had died in the attack, while the other sustained gunshot injuries.
The injured herder was taken to Keana in neighboring Nasarawa State for urgent medical care. Meanwhile, the deceased’s body was turned over to community representatives for burial, in accordance with traditional rites.
