The timely intervention of Nigerian Army troops has averted what could have developed into a wider communal conflict between residents of Benue and Cross River states after 36 Benue indigenes were rescued from alleged captivity in Imaje Community, Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The rescue operation was carried out by troops of the 130 Battalion (Rear) in collaboration with the 341 Artillery Regiment following reports that dozens of Benue residents had been held against their will in the community after tensions erupted over an alleged livestock theft incident.

According to security sources, the crisis began after an indigene of Imaje Community was reportedly assaulted by youths from Benue State over the alleged theft of livestock. The incident is said to have triggered retaliatory actions, with members of the host community allegedly targeting Benue indigenes residing in the area and holding them captive.

Acting on intelligence, troops launched a coordinated operation into the community, successfully securing the release of all 36 victims without further violence. The swift response also restored calm and prevented the dispute from escalating into a broader inter-community confrontation.

Military sources disclosed that security personnel have maintained a presence in the area to forestall any reprisal attacks while investigations continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.

The development underscores the growing role of security agencies in containing communal disputes before they spiral into large-scale violence, particularly in border communities where disagreements over livestock, land and local grievances can quickly trigger unrest.

The rescued victims are expected to be reunited with their families as authorities continue efforts to sustain peace and prevent a recurrence of the incident.