The Benue State Police Command has issued a harsh warning to those involved in cattle rustling, advising them to cease or face severe legal repercussions.
This warning was issued by the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, in a statement posted on Wednesday via the command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, and shared with journalists.
According to authorities, intelligence reports and continuing investigations show that cattle rustling is a key source of repeated violence and retaliatory attacks in various areas.
The command warned not just those directly involved in cattle theft but also those who buy, shelter, or benefit from stolen livestock, emphasising that such individuals will be treated as partners in banditry and penalised appropriately.
“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 statement continued.
While noting security concerns in many parts of the state, including Apa, Logo, Katsina-Ala, Ukum, Gwer East, and Guma Local Government Areas, the police revealed that clearance operations had already begun to remove criminal groups.
The statement further reads, “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 police stated that their continued efforts have resulted in the dismantling of criminal networks, the seizure of weapons, and a heightened security presence in the impacted communities.
Residents were also advised not to circulate incorrect or unconfirmed information, and the command urged the public to rely on official communication channels for reliable updates.
CP Emenari reminded the public that the command is committed to protecting lives and property, and that anyone found guilty of criminal conduct will be prosecuted.