Suspected rustlers kill herder, flee with cattle in Borno

Armed men believed to be cattle rustlers have killed a 31-year-old herder, Mohammed Audu, and made off with an undisclosed number of cattle in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State.

The attack reportedly took place at night over the weekend in Jewu bush, near Jakana town.

Counterinsurgency analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed the incident via his X handle, stating that the victim was shot while attempting to protect his livestock.

“He was shot by the attackers while fending for his livestock and was rushed to the General Hospital in Jakana, where he was confirmed dead by a medical doctor,” Makama stated.

The herder’s brother, Sanda Audu, reported the incident to police authorities on Sunday. He condemned the killing as “cold-blooded” and demanded justice for his brother.

Following the report, a joint team of security operatives, including troops of Operation Hadin Kai, the Nigeria Police, Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and local hunters, was deployed to the area to pursue the assailants.

Local sources indicated that the attackers fled with a significant number of cattle to an unknown location.

The body of the deceased has been handed over to his family and buried in accordance with Islamic rites.

Authorities confirmed that investigations are underway, with efforts ongoing to recover the stolen livestock and apprehend those responsible for the killing.