Jigawa cattle rustlers numbering 11 have been arrested during coordinated police operations that led to the recovery of 40 animals and two vehicles.
According to Punch, the Jigawa State Police Command carried out the operations across Gwiwa, Hadejia, Gwaram and Taura local government areas.
Police spokesperson SP Shi’isu Adam confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Wednesday in Dutse.
Adam said police operatives worked with local vigilantes after receiving credible intelligence and distress calls concerning suspected livestock theft.
The suspects include two nationals of the Niger Republic and nine Nigerians. Police said officers intercepted them before they could allegedly sell or dispose of the animals.
Jigawa cattle rustlers intercepted
The coordinated operations led to the recovery of 27 sheep, 10 goats and three cows.
Police said the animals were reasonably suspected to have been stolen and had been taken into custody as exhibits.
Operatives also recovered two vehicles which the suspects allegedly used during their activities.
“The swift intervention led to the arrest of the suspects before they could successfully dispose of the stolen animals,” Adam said.
The police identified the Nigerien suspects as Muhammad Musa, 32, and Musa Hassan, 35, both from Maradi.
Others include Auwalu Musa, 30, of Zangon Maje Settlement Camp, and Yahaya Abubakar, 30, of Kwalam town.
The remaining suspects were identified as Abdullahi Amadu, 30; Yahaya Musa, 30; Yasir Muda; Salisu Aliyu, 28; Sama’ila Amadu, 35; Ibrahim Maikudi, 18; and Bello Muhammad, 25.
Investigation targets fleeing suspects
Adam said investigators were working to establish the ownership of the recovered animals and determine the roles allegedly played by each suspect.
He added that efforts were underway to identify and arrest other suspected members of the syndicate who escaped during the operations.
The suspects will be charged in court after the police complete their investigation.
Adam said the animals and vehicles would remain in police custody as exhibits pending the conclusion of the case.
Police commend operatives, vigilantes
The Jigawa State Commissioner of Police commended the officers involved for responding promptly to the intelligence received.
He also praised local vigilantes for supporting the operations and contributing to the arrests.
The commissioner said the outcome reflected the command’s commitment to protecting residents and their property.
He added that the police would intensify intelligence-led operations, surveillance and collaboration with communities across the state.
The command also warned people involved in cattle rustling and other crimes to stop or face prosecution.
