The Police Command in Jigawa 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 on Friday in Dutse.
Shiisu said the feat is part of the command’s sustained efforts to combat cattle rustling and other forms of crimes across the state.
He explained that the suspects, aged between 20 and 40, were suspected to be members of a cattle-rustling syndicate operating across the Garki, Jahun, and Miga Local Government Areas of the state.
The spokesperson added that the suspects were apprehended by police personnel during routine patrol operations, following actionable intelligence and timely information provided by vigilant members of the public concerning the activities of the syndicate.
“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,” the spokesperson said.
According to him, the suspects are still in police custody and are assisting operatives with useful information into their activities, while efforts are being intensified to identify other members of the syndicate and recover additional rustled livestock.
Shiisu further quoted the Commissioner of Police in state Command, Mr Tijjani Murtala, as commending the personnel involved in the operation for their vigilance, courage and professionalism.
“The CP equally appreciated members of the public whose timely information assisted the command in apprehending the suspects and recovering the cows”, Shiisu added.