Security operatives in Benue State have successfully recovered a rustled cow and arrested four individuals in connection with an alleged armed robbery and cattle rustling incident in Otukpo Local Government Area.
Sources revealed that the breakthrough came after investigations into a cattle rustling report that was initially lodged on March 9.
According to the sources, one of the stolen cows was recovered from a suspect identified as Tunde Rafiu, who hails from Okpomaju Village in Otukpo LGA.
During questioning, Rafiu reportedly admitted that he purchased the cow from another suspect, Maki Damina.
Following the confession, security operatives apprehended Damina along with two other individuals believed to be involved in the cattle rustling syndicate.
Additional intelligence from security sources indicated that other stolen cattle might be hidden in a suspected bandits’ hideout in the Amla area of Otukpo LGA.
The sources further noted that deploying police air support for aerial reconnaissance could assist in locating the hideout, dismantling the criminal network, and recovering the remaining livestock.
Authorities continue to pursue investigations as efforts intensify to apprehend other members of the criminal group.
