Security Forces Intercept and Recover 1,000 Stolen Livestock in Kogi

A joint security operation led by the Kogi State Government has successfully recovered approximately 1,000 head of livestock that had been stolen by armed bandit syndicates.

The mission, which involved the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, the Office of the National Security Adviser (Hybrid Forces), the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and local vigilante groups, targeted criminal networks operating within Kogi and across the North-Central region.

Authorities confirmed that the operation specifically dismantled segments of the network previously led by the late bandit kingpin, Kachalla Ibrahim Battijo. According to the state government, intelligence reports indicated that the bandits intended to sell the stolen animals to fund the purchase of weapons and logistics for their operations.

The recovery followed a series of coordinated offensives launched after security agencies received actionable intelligence regarding the movement of the rustled animals. “Acting swiftly on the intelligence, security operatives engaged the bandits in fierce gun battles,” stated Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications. He added that several suspects were neutralized during the encounter, while others fled the scene with injuries and are currently being tracked by security forces.

The recovered livestock are currently being held in a secure location within the Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area. State officials are working to identify the rightful owners to facilitate the return of the animals. Commissioner Fanwo praised the collaboration between federal security agencies and local community forces, describing the recovery as a significant achievement in the state’s ongoing efforts to curb criminality.

He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to utilizing security resources, with support from the federal government, to ensure the safety of lives and property. The Kogi State Government has urged residents to continue providing timely intelligence, emphasizing that community cooperation remains vital in maintaining regional security.