Kogi State Security Forces Recover 1,000 Rustled Livestock

Kogi State has achieved a significant breakthrough in its fight against banditry, with security forces recovering 1,000 rustled livestock through a coordinated offensive across the state. The operation involved a joint security team comprising the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force, and local vigilante hunters, targeting remnants of the criminal network associated with the late bandit kingpin Kachalla Ibrahim Battijo.

The operation led to the recovery of 200 livestock directly traced to Battijo's network, while the rest were intercepted from armed groups attempting to move the stolen animals for sale in Kogi State. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the state Commissioner for Information and Communication, attributed the success to credible intelligence that enabled the security operatives to track and intercept the criminals.

The operation engaged the criminals in fierce gun battles at multiple locations, resulting in the neutralization of several suspects, while others fled with gunshot wounds, abandoning livestock. The operation significantly weakened the criminal network following the elimination of its kingpin and further dismantled its structure.