The Defence Headquarters on Friday announced the launch of Operation Whirl Stroke for Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba and Zamfara states, to counter armed herdsmen and militia groups operating within the region.

The Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General John Agim while briefing journalist at Tactical Air Command headquarters in Makurdi said, the operation which began on May 8, consists of all the military services, police and Department of State Services (DSS).

Brigadier General Agim also confirmed the arrest of militia groups, armed herdsmen and associates of a notorious suspected criminal Terwase Akwaza, who has since been declared wanted.

Furthermore, the Force Commander in charge of the new operation, Major General Mutiu Yekini, assured residents of improved security with the operations covering both land and air targets.

Since the beginning of the year, many have lost their lives and property as a result of clashes between farmers and killer herdsmen in states across the country.

While Benue has been one of the most affected states, many have called on the Federal Government to declare the killer herdsmen as terrorists.

The Federal Government, on the other hand, has appealed to leaders of various groups to convince their constituents that it is doing its best to end the recurring attacks across the country.