The police command in Jigawa says it has apprehended seven suspected cattle rustlers and recovered eight cows.

The command’s spokesperson, Lawan Shiisu, confirmed this in a statement on Friday in Dutse.

Mr Shiisu said this achievement is part of the command’s sustained efforts to combat cattle rustling and other crimes across the state.

He explained that the suspects, aged between 20 and 40, were suspected members of a cattle-rustling syndicate operating across the Garki, Jahun, and Miga local government areas of the state.

The spokesperson added that police personnel apprehended the suspects during routine patrol operations, following actionable intelligence and timely information from vigilant members of the public about the syndicate’s activities.

“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 remain in police custody and are assisting operatives with useful information on their activities, while efforts intensify to identify other members of the syndicate and recover additional rustled livestock.

Mr Shiisu further quoted the police commissioner, 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,” Mr Shiisu added.

(NAN)