Security agencies have recovered about 1,000 rustled livestock in a coordinated operation aimed at dismantling cattle-rustling networks operating in Kogi State and parts of the North-Central region.

The operation, carried out by a joint security team comprising the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade, Hybrid Forces under the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes, and hunters, followed credible intelligence on the movement of stolen livestock through the state.

According to the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, more than 200 of the recovered animals were traced to the network of the late bandit leader, Kachalla Ibrahim Battijo, while the remaining livestock were recovered from other suspected cattle-rustling syndicates.

Fanwo said security operatives engaged the suspects during the operation, killing several of them, while others escaped with gunshot wounds. He added that efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and dismantle the remaining criminal networks.

The recovered livestock have been moved to a secure facility in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, where authorities are verifying ownership before returning the animals to their rightful owners.

The Kogi State Government described the operation as a significant breakthrough in the fight against cattle rustling and other violent crimes, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening collaboration with security agencies to protect lives and property. Residents were also urged to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing security operations across the state. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.