Police begin crackdown on armed camps in Benue

In compliance with the Benue State Government’s directive to dislodge armed herder camps in Apa, Otukpo, Gwer-West, and other areas, the Police Command has reiterated its role as lead security agency in the ongoing operations.

Udeme Edet, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), who disclosed this in a statement on behalf of Ifeanyi Emenari, the State Commissioner of Police said, “the Command wishes to reiterate its statutory responsibility and ongoing efforts as the lead security agency in addressing banditry and other violent crimes across the State.”

In view of this, the PPRO said, the Command had issued a stern warning to cattle rustlers and their accomplices, vowing to crack down on individuals and groups involved in livestock theft, as well as those who knowingly purchase, harbor, or profit from stolen cattle.

The PPRO warned that “anyone found to be directly or indirectly involved in cattle rustling or in the handling of its proceeds will be treated as a collaborator in banditry and will be dealt with in accordance with the law”.

According to her, intelligence and ongoing investigations have revealed that such activities often contribute to cycles of violence and reprisal attacks within communities”

She said, “the Command therefore urges all residents to desist from such unlawful activities and to support security agencies by providing credible information that will aid ongoing operations”

“The Command acknowledges the recent security challenges experienced in parts of the State, particularly in Apa, Logo, Katsina-Ala, Ukum, Gwer East, and Guma Local Government Areas. While these incidents remain a concern, they continue to inform the review and strengthening of operational strategies aimed at restoring normalcy in affected communities”.

Udeme maintained that, “in furtherance of its operational objectives, the Command has sustained the deployment of tactical teams to identified areas of concern, including hinterlands and other vulnerable locations, while also conducting targeted clearance operations to dislodge criminal elements.”

The efforts she said have led to the disruption of criminal activities, recovery of arms, and increased security presence in affected communities.

The statement also commended Officers and men of the Command whom it said have remained committed in the discharge of their duties, with notable sacrifices recorded in the course of ongoing operations, urging them to sustained their dedication and resilience as their efforts continue to improve security across the State.

She noted the circulation of misleading information and unverified reports in certain quarters where she advised members of the public to desist forthwith and rely only on official sources for accurate information, adding that the spread of misinformation may undermine ongoing security efforts”

While assuring residents that efforts are being sustained to protect lives and property, and that all persons found culpable in criminal activities would be brought to justice, the PPRO quoted Ifeanyi Emenari, the State Commissioner of Police as advising members of the public to contact the nearest police formation or the Comman for emergency assistance or to provide credible information.