Police operatives, in collaboration with the Military Joint Task Force deployed to the Kano-Katsina border, have recovered 67 rustled animals in Gwarzo Local Government Area.

This is contained in a statement issued on Friday in Kano by the police spokesperson, CSP Abdullahi Haruna-Kiyawa.

He said that on May 6, at about 6:15 p.m., the command received credible intelligence that suspected cattle rustlers had stolen livestock from several villages in Gwarzo and neighbouring areas.

Acting on the tip-off, the spokesperson said a joint team of police operatives from Gwarzo Division and military JTF personnel was immediately mobilised and deployed to the affected areas.

“On sighting the security team, the suspects engaged them in a gun duel.

“Due to the team’s superior firepower and tactical advantage, the criminals were overpowered and forced to abandon the livestock and flee outside the state.

“After the operation, the team recovered 67 cows, one donkey, and one sheep, which were taken into safe custody at Gwarzo Division.

“Following proper identification and verification, the animals were released to their rightful owners on May 7 through their respective district heads, under the supervision of the local government chairman,” he revealed.

Mr Haruna-Kiyawa said an intensified manhunt and intelligence-led operations were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects, while monitoring continued in the affected communities to prevent a recurrence.

The spokesperson quoted the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu-Bakori, as commending the operatives for their gallantry and professionalism, and acknowledging the effective synergy with the military.

He reiterated that the command remained committed to ridding the state of criminal elements threatening the peace and livelihoods of rural communities.

The CP urged residents, especially those in rural areas, to cooperate with the police by providing timely and credible information to support proactive policing and crime prevention.

He assured residents of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and the agricultural economy of Kano State.

“For information or to report suspicious activities, contact the Command on 08032419754, 08123821575, or 09029292926, or visit the nearest police station,” the PPRO advised.

 (NAN)