Governor Hyacinth Alia has called on residents of Benue to support the military and other security operatives in the fight against killer herdsmen, bandits and other violent criminals.

Mr Alia made the call on Tuesday in Tyodugh, Guma LGA, during the launch of ‘Exercise Enduring Peace III’, a military operation.

The governor urged residents to provide useful information to the operatives to root out insecurity and restore peace in Benue completely.

Mr Alia expressed confidence in the military exercise and efforts of other security agencies to flush out criminal elements in Benue. He commended the military and other security agencies for their sacrifices and services to Benue and the nation.

Earlier, the 401 Special Forces Brigade commander, Makurdi, Brig.-Gen Al-Amin Rabiu, urged the troops to be professional in discharging their duties.

He said the exercise, based on real-time intelligence on the prevailing security threat in Benue, would last till January 5, 2024.

Also, the Special Forces Command commander, Doma, Nasarawa, Maj.- Gen Hilary Nzan, said the exercise would be jointly conducted in Benue by the troops of 401 Special Forces Brigade and personnel from paramilitary agencies drawn from various commands within the state.

(NAN)