The Benue State Police Command has issued a strong warning to individuals involved in cattle rustling to desist from the crime or face strict legal consequences.
The caution was delivered by the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, in a statement released on Wednesday, April 15, through the command’s spokesperson, Udeme Edet.
According to the command, intelligence reports and ongoing investigations have identified cattle rustling as a major trigger of recurring violence and retaliatory attacks across parts of the state.
The police stressed that not only those directly involved in stealing livestock but also individuals who buy, harbour, or profit from stolen cattle will be treated as accomplices in banditry and prosecuted accordingly.
While acknowledging security concerns in several local government areas, including Apa, Logo, Katsina-Ala, Ukum, Gwer East, and Guma, the command disclosed that clearance operations have commenced to flush out criminal elements.
It added that tactical teams have been deployed to affected communities, particularly in remote hinterlands and other vulnerable locations, as part of sustained efforts to restore order.
The command noted that the ongoing operations have led to the disruption of criminal networks, recovery of illegal arms, and an increased security presence across troubled areas.
Residents were urged to support security agencies by providing credible information that could aid ongoing investigations and operations.
The police also cautioned against the spread of false or unverified information, advising the public to rely solely on official communication channels to avoid undermining security efforts.
CP Emenari reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, warning that anyone found culpable—whether directly or indirectly—will be brought to justice as a collaborator in banditry.