Stolen cattle recovered by the police in Kaduna
The Kaduna State Police Command has foiled two separate cattle rustling and kidnapping attempts in Igabi and Kudan Local Government Areas, recovering no fewer than 245 rustled cattle.
The command said the operations, carried out on May 31, 2026, were made possible through coordinated efforts involving police operatives, local vigilantes and community members.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, armed bandits invaded a Fulani settlement on the outskirts of Rubu Village in Igabi LGA in the early hours of Saturday, where they reportedly tied up three cattle rearers and several guards before rustling a large number of cattle.
The incident was reported by the Chairman of Miyetti Allah in Igabi LGA, prompting the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rigachikun Division to mobilise police personnel, Miyetti Allah vigilantes and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) for a joint rescue operation.
The statement said the combined team trailed the suspects while simultaneously alerting neighbouring communities, mounting pressure on the bandits.
“Unable to withstand the intense pursuit, the bandits abandoned the stolen cattle and their captives and fled into the bush,” the statement said.
The police disclosed that over 200 cattle were recovered unharmed, while efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
In a separate operation, the DPO of Hunkuyi Division acted on a report of cattle rustling and launched an intelligence-led investigation.
The command said credible intelligence later traced the stolen cattle to a bush at Hawan Mai Mashi along the Zaria–Kano Expressway.
A combined team of police operatives and personnel of the Kaduna State Vigilance Service (KADVIS) was deployed to the location.
On sighting the operatives, the armed bandits reportedly opened fire, leading to an exchange of gunfire.
The police said the operatives responded with superior firepower, forcing the suspects to flee with suspected gunshot wounds and abandon all 45 rustled cattle.
Investigations are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects and dismantle the criminal network behind the attacks.
Commending the collaboration among security agencies and community stakeholders, the Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, described the successful operations as a reflection of effective community policing and intelligence sharing.
He urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, assuring that the command remains committed to safeguarding lives, property and livestock across Kaduna State.
