7 Suspected Cattle Rustlers Arrested in Jigawa, 8 Cows Recovered

The Jigawa State Police Command says it has apprehended seven suspected cattle rustlers and recovered eight cows in the state.

The command's spokesperson, DSP Lawan Shiisu, confirmed this in a statement issued on Friday in Dutse, describing it as part of the command's sustained efforts to combat cattle rustling and other crimes across the state.

He said the suspects, aged between 20 and 40, are believed to be members of a cattle-rustling syndicate operating across the Garki, Jahun and Miga Local Government Areas.

According to Shiisu, the suspects were apprehended by police personnel during routine patrol operations, following actionable intelligence and timely information from vigilant members of the public concerning the syndicate's activities.

"During the operation, police operatives successfully intercepted two operational vehicles suspected to be used by the syndicate for their criminal activities, while eight cows suspected to have been rustled were recovered. The arrest and recoveries followed sustained intelligence gathering, community engagement and intensified patrols in identified flashpoints and vulnerable areas. The command's proactive response, coupled with the cooperation of members of the public, contributed significantly to disrupting the activities of the criminal network," he said.

He added that the suspects remain in police custody and are assisting operatives with useful information about their activities, while efforts are being intensified to identify other members of the syndicate and recover additional rustled livestock.

Shiisu quoted the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Tijjani Murtala, as commending the personnel involved in the operation for their vigilance, courage and professionalism, while also appreciating members of the public whose timely information helped the command apprehend the suspects and recover the cows.