The Oyo State Police Command has recovered 26 stolen cows valued at ₦6.25 million and arrested two suspected cattle rustlers, identified as Abu Muhammed and Aliu Bello, at Iresaadu in Surulere Local Government Area.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed the development in a statement issued in Ibadan, the state capital, on Thursday. He said the suspects were apprehended following a swift response to a report received at the Iresaadu Division of the command.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were attempting to conceal the stolen cattle when intercepted at Odojaye via Aganyan, Iresaadu. The suspects have reportedly confessed to their involvement and provided valuable information about the criminal network.
“The operation underscores the effectiveness of proactive policing, intelligence-led investigations, and collaboration with community security agencies in tackling criminal activities,” Ayanlade said.
He added that the recovery of the livestock reflected the impact of coordinated efforts between the police and community stakeholders in protecting lives and property. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang and recover additional stolen livestock.
The police command commended members of the public for providing timely information that led to the arrests, as well as the support of other partners, including non-state actors. Ayanlade urged residents to continue providing credible intelligence to aid investigations and enhance community safety.
This operation highlights the critical role of community-police collaboration in curbing cattle rustling and other criminal activities in Oyo State, sending a strong warning to criminals targeting livestock in the region.
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