Kaduna, June 1, 2026 — Security operatives in Kaduna State have successfully disrupted two separate cattle rustling and kidnapping operations in Igabi and Kudan Local Government Areas, recovering 245 cattle in the process.
This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, in Kaduna.
According to the statement, the first incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday when armed attackers stormed a Fulani settlement near Rubu Village in Igabi LGA.
The assailants reportedly overpowered three herders and several guards before making away with a large number of cattle.
The attack was reported by the Chairman of Miyetti Allah in Igabi LGA, prompting a swift response from the Divisional Police Officer of Rigachikun Division, CSP Musa Majiya, who led a joint operation involving police officers, Miyetti Allah vigilantes and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force.
The combined team pursued the attackers, coordinating with nearby communities and maintaining pressure during the chase.
Unable to withstand the pursuit, the suspects abandoned the animals and their captives and escaped into surrounding forest areas.
Over 200 cattle were recovered unhurt, while efforts continue to track down the fleeing suspects.
In a separate development, the Divisional Police Officer of Hunkuyi Division, CSP Hassan Falladan, launched surveillance operations following another report of cattle theft in the area.
Intelligence gathered later revealed that the stolen livestock had been hidden in a bush near Hawan Mai Mashi along the Zaria–Kano Expressway.
A joint team of police operatives and personnel of the Kaduna State Vigilance Service was deployed to the location.
On arrival, the suspects engaged the security team in a gun duel but were overpowered by superior firepower, forcing them to flee with suspected gunshot wounds and abandon 45 cattle.
The police command confirmed that investigations are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators and dismantle their network.
Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, praised the synergy between security agencies, local vigilantes and community members, describing it as key to the success of the operations.
He said the collaboration demonstrated the importance of intelligence sharing and community participation in tackling crime.
Muhammad also urged residents to continue providing timely information to security agencies, reaffirming the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property and livestock across Kaduna State.