By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested two suspected cattle thieves in Guma Local Government Area, recovering freshly butchered meat from a stolen cow.
The arrest occurred on Saturday, July 6, 2025, as troops moved to reinforce police officers who had earlier clashed with armed herders on the outskirts of Udei Village.
According to Acting Media Officer for OPWS, Ahmad Zubairu, the suspects – 32-year-old Raymond Abina and 21-year-old Sunday Faga, both residents of Ukohol Village – were intercepted on a motorcycle attempting to exit the bush with a sack of raw meat.
The men initially claimed they had bought the meat from a Fulani herder deep in the forest but investigations later confirmed the meat came from a stolen cow reported missing in Tse Pokiau Village, Daudu area.
OPWS Commander, Major General Moses Gara, reacting to the incident, said that, “Cattle theft, destruction of farmlands, and jungle justice are criminal acts fueling insecurity in Benue State. We will not tolerate any of these crimes.”
He urged residents to report suspicious activity, avoid taking laws into their own hands, and cooperate with security agencies, adding that the suspects will be handed over to law enforcement for prosecution once investigations are complete.
Major General Gara also called on traditional leaders, youth groups, and religious stakeholders to preach peaceful coexistence and lawful conflict resolution, noting that sustainable peace depends on collaboration between citizens and the military.
“We urge communities to activate early warning systems. Peace and security must be everyone’s business,” he said.
