Army launches “Operation Cat Race” in Benue, Taraba to end herdsmen attacks

The Nigerian Army will on February the 15th, begin a special operation in Benue, Kaduna, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger and Taraba States.

“AYEM AKPATUMA” which is loosely translated as Cat Race is meant to crackdown on the activities of ethnic militia, cattle thieves, kidnappers and other criminals.

Defence Correspondent Sifon Essien reports that the  Cat Race is a special security operation spearheaded by the Nigerian Army.

The operation which begins on February the 15th is meant to crackdown on the activities of ethnic militias, cattle thieves, kidnappers and other criminals in Benue, Kaduna, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger and Taraba States.  It will be conducted in conjunction with other security forces.

Major General Ahmadu said troops will employ tactics including cordon and search as well as raids.

Unlike Python Dance 2, an operation conducted against separatists late 2017, the people of Benue State have long expressed their desire for an operation to end the wanton attacks on residents in the state.

The Chief of Army Staff in a lecture at the National Defence College recounted the consequences of conflicts between crop farmers and herdsmen.

The Nigerian Army authorities are optimistic that Operation Cat Race which is meant to run till March the 31st would halt or reduce the conflicts and criminal activities in the affected states.