Troops Arrest Two Criminal Herders During Farmland Patrol in Makurdi
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested two herders for allegedly trespassing and destroying crops on community farmlands in Makurdi, Benue State, amid heightened efforts to protect farmers during the peak harvest season.
The arrests were made on 20 November 2025 during a routine farm-protection patrol by OPWS personnel deployed at Zongo Akiki. The troops intercepted the herders after they reportedly led their cattle into cultivated farmlands belonging to local residents, causing damage to crops. Their swift response prevented further destruction and a possible confrontation between the herders and farmers.
The suspects are currently in custody for further investigation and legal action.
Force Commander OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their professionalism and urged residents to avoid taking the law into their own hands when dealing with disputes. He stressed that violence or reprisals only escalate tensions and undermine peaceful coexistence.
Major General Gara also appealed to herders to act responsibly and desist from criminal activities that threaten public order, reaffirming OPWS’s commitment to securing farmlands and supporting a safe environment for all lawful economic activities.
Comments