The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two suspected cattle rustlers and recovered dozens of stolen cows in a coordinated operation that security officials described as a product of intelligence-driven policing and community cooperation.
The suspects, identified as Abu Muhammed and Aliu Bello, were apprehended following a distress report received at the Iresadu Police Division, which triggered an immediate response by operatives and local security partners.
According to police sources, the suspects were intercepted while allegedly attempting to conceal stolen livestock along the Odojaye axis via Aganyan in Iresadu.
Consequently, officers recovered 26 cows estimated to be worth about ₦6.25 million during the operation.
A police spokesperson said the recovery highlighted the growing effectiveness of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and community-based security outfits.
“This operation reflects the impact of timely intelligence and the support of residents who are committed to safeguarding their communities,” the spokesperson said.
Moreover, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects admitted their involvement in the cattle theft and provided information on a wider criminal network believed to be operating across the area.
Meanwhile, the Command disclosed that efforts were ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate and recover additional livestock linked to the crime.
Officials stressed that all those involved would be brought to justice.
Furthermore, the Oyo State Police Command commended the Inspector-General of Police for what it described as consistent leadership and strategic guidance, noting that such support continues to strengthen policing outcomes nationwide.
The police also urged residents to sustain their cooperation with security agencies by providing credible and timely information, adding that public vigilance remains critical to crime prevention.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across Oyo State, assuring residents that decisive actions would continue to be taken against criminal activities threatening livelihoods and public safety.