The Kogi State Government worked alongside local and federal security agencies to rescue at least 1,000 head of livestock from armed groups. This mission involved the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, Hybrid Forces from the Office of the National Security Adviser, as well as local hunters and vigilantes.
The operation focused on dismantling the remnants of the criminal network led by the deceased bandit leader Kachalla Ibrahim Battijo and other cattle-rustling groups operating throughout Kogi and nearby states. About 200 of the recovered animals were tied to Battijo’s gang, while the rest were seized from various criminal syndicates attempting to transport stolen property through the state to fund weapons and logistics.
Kingsley Fanwo, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, stated that precise intelligence allowed security forces to intercept the bandits before they reached their markets. During the ensuing skirmishes, several criminals were killed, while others fled with injuries. Authorities are currently tracking the fugitives.
The recovered animals are being held in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area until they can be returned to their owners. Commissioner Fanwo praised the collaboration between the various security branches and noted that the state remains dedicated to using federal support from President Bola Tinubu to ensure public safety. Officials are encouraging residents to continue sharing information to help maintain security throughout the region.
