Benue Police Command Issues Strong Warning to Cattle Rustlers
The Benue State Police Command has delivered a stern and unequivocal warning to individuals involved in cattle rustling activities across the state, urging them to immediately cease these illegal operations or face severe legal repercussions. This firm caution was officially communicated by the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, through a detailed statement released on Wednesday, April 15, via the command's spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet.
Intelligence Links Rustling to Violence and Retaliatory Attacks
According to the police authorities, comprehensive intelligence reports and ongoing investigative efforts have clearly identified cattle rustling as a primary catalyst for the recurring cycles of violence and retaliatory attacks that have plagued various communities within Benue State. The command explicitly cautioned that not only those directly engaged in the theft of livestock but also any individuals who purchase, shelter, or financially profit from stolen cattle will be treated as active accomplices in banditry-related crimes and prosecuted accordingly under the full extent of the law.
Security Operations Target High-Risk Local Government Areas
While acknowledging persistent security concerns in several local government areas, including Apa, Logo, Katsina-Ala, Ukum, Gwer East, and Guma, the police disclosed that coordinated clearance operations have already been initiated to systematically flush out criminal elements from these regions. In furtherance of its strategic operational objectives, the command has sustained and intensified the deployment of specialized tactical teams to identified areas of concern, particularly focusing on remote hinterlands and other vulnerable locations that have historically been hotspots for criminal activity.
Ongoing Efforts Yield Significant Security Improvements
These sustained and proactive security efforts have already yielded tangible results, including the successful disruption of established criminal networks, the recovery of numerous weapons and illicit firearms, and a significantly strengthened security presence across the affected communities. The command emphasized that these measures are part of a broader strategy to restore peace and stability throughout the state.
Public Cooperation and Reliance on Official Information Channels
The police command urgently appealed to residents to actively support security agencies by providing timely and credible information that can aid ongoing operations and enhance community safety. Simultaneously, residents were strongly cautioned against spreading false or unverified information, with the police stressing that the public should depend exclusively on official communication channels for accurate updates to avoid inadvertently undermining security efforts and creating unnecessary panic.
Reaffirmed Commitment to Justice and Security
Commissioner of Police Ifeanyi Emenari firmly reaffirmed the command's unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Benue State. He added with emphasis that anyone found guilty of criminal acts, whether directly involved or indirectly complicit, will be decisively brought to justice and treated as a collaborator in banditry, ensuring that all perpetrators face appropriate legal consequences for their actions.
