War Declared: IGP Launches Massive Crackdown on Benue Killers and Armed Criminals

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has initiated a comprehensive 14-day special security operation aimed at dismantling persistent criminal networks responsible for killings, kidnappings, and other violent crimes across Benue State. This decisive intervention, announced during a town hall meeting with stakeholders in Makurdi, follows a direct directive from President Bola Tinubu, who has called upon all security agencies to urgently bring an end to the recurring violence and restore lasting peace in the state. IGP Disu described the security situation in Benue as alarming, acknowledging that the continuous attacks have instilled profound fear among residents and presented significant challenges to law enforcement. He conveyed President Tinubu's firm stance, stating that the insecurity in Benue is unacceptable, having become a source of sleepless nights for both the populace and security agencies, and will no longer be tolerated.

The operation will primarily focus on dislodging armed criminal herders, kidnappers, bandits, cult groups, and other violent offenders implicated in attacks throughout various parts of Benue. A critical component of this crackdown is the eradication of illegal arms. The IGP issued a stern warning, clarifying that only authorized security personnel are permitted to bear firearms, and anyone found in illegal possession of weapons will face the full weight of the law. Police personnel have been explicitly instructed to confront armed criminals decisively, in strict adherence to Force Order 237. Disu also cautioned young people against being manipulated by politicians or other influential figures to engage in violent acts, particularly during elections, emphasizing intensified efforts against illegal possession of firearms.

Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Police Mobile Force, Francis Iduh (also identified as Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Mobile Policing), provided further details on the operational strategy. He revealed that security operatives have meticulously mapped out 14 key flashpoints across Benue State for this special operation. These critical areas include Gbajimgba, Arufu, Agasha, Kwande, Agatu, Naka, Otukpo, Makurdi, Apa, and several other vulnerable communities. Within these identified zones, security forces will conduct rigorous clearance and stability operations, specifically targeting and reclaiming forests, farmlands, and criminal hideouts. Iduh underscored that the 14-day operation would focus on flushing out criminal elements without victimizing law-abiding citizens, assuring that the entire effort would be intelligence-driven and community-focused while distinguishing between criminals and innocent citizens.

IGP Disu assured members of the public that all allegations of misconduct against police officers would be thoroughly investigated, reinforcing accountability within the force. He reiterated his personal commitment to the mission, stating he would continue to visit Benue until normalcy is fully restored. The IGP earnestly appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, and all residents to actively cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence, highlighting its vital role in achieving success against criminal networks.

At the town hall meeting, Governor Hyacinth Alia welcomed the security initiative as a timely and essential intervention. He took the opportunity to reiterate his advocacy for the establishment of state police, arguing that officers with intimate knowledge of local communities and terrain would significantly bolster efforts to combat insecurity more effectively. The Tor Tiv, Professor James Ayatse, identified armed criminal herders, local armed gangs, communal clashes, and cult groups as the primary security threats confronting Benue. He strongly urged security agencies to identify and rigorously prosecute individuals suspected of sponsoring the violence. Participants at the meeting unanimously concurred that achieving lasting peace in Benue State hinges upon stronger cooperation between security agencies and local communities, facilitated through intelligence sharing and sustained security operations.