Police Warn Against Cattle Rustling In Benue

The Benue State Police Command has warned individuals and groups involved in cattle rustling to desist from such unlawful activities.

The command stressed 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.

In a statement yesterday, the command’s sspokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, said those who knowingly purchase, harbour, or benefit from proceeds of stolen livestock will also face the law.

The statement explained that intelligence and ongoing investigations revealed that such activities often contribute to cycles of violence and reprisal attacks within communities.

The Command urged residents to support security agencies by providing credible information that will aid ongoing operations to tackle security challenges.

Edet reiterated the command’s statutory responsibility and ongoing efforts as the lead security agency in addressing banditry and other violent crimes across the State.

The Command acknowledged the recent security challenges experienced in parts of the State, particularly in Apa, Logo, Katsina-Ala, Ukum, Gwer East, and Guma Local Government Areas.

Parts of the statement read, “While these incidents remain a concern, they continue to inform the review and strengthening of operational strategies aimed at restoring normalcy in affected communities.

“Officers and men of the Command have remained committed in the discharge of their duties, with notable sacrifices recorded in the course of ongoing operations. The Command recognises the dedication and resilience of its personnel as efforts continue to improve security across the State”

The statement added, “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”

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

“The Command also notes the circulation of misleading information and unverified reports in certain quarters. Members of the public are advised to rely on official sources for accurate information, as the spread of misinformation may undermine ongoing security efforts,” the Command said.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, Ifeanyi Emenari, assured residents that efforts were being sustained to protect lives and property, and that all persons found culpable in criminal activities will be brought to justice.

“For emergency assistance or to provide credible information, members of the public are advised to contact the nearest police formation or the Command through the following emergency lines: 08066006475, 07067374913”, the statement said.