SECURITY OPERATIVES RECOVER 35 STOLEN COWS, KILL FOUR SUSPECTED RUSTLERS IN KWARA

Four suspected cattle rustlers have been killed during a gun battle with security operatives in Lade, Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State. The incident occurred after armed men reportedly invaded a cattle camp around 10pm on Friday, September 11, 2026, and fled with about 40 cows.

Following the attack, personnel of the Kwara State Police Command, Nigerian Army, Forest Guards and local vigilantes mobilised to the area after receiving information about the incident. The joint team reportedly extended its operation into the surrounding forest while tracking routes believed to have been used by the fleeing suspects.

The suspected rustlers later engaged the security operatives in a gun battle, during which four members of the gang were killed. Other members of the group reportedly escaped into the forest with suspected gunshot wounds as the security personnel continued their pursuit.

During the operation, 35 of the stolen cows were recovered alongside a locally fabricated AK-47 rifle. The remaining animals had not been recovered as of Tuesday, while efforts were ongoing to locate the fleeing suspects and retrieve the outstanding livestock.

The development was confirmed by the Kwara State Police Command through its spokesperson, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi. The Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, attributed the outcome to information provided by residents and the coordinated response of the security agencies, urging communities to continue sharing timely intelligence to help prevent attacks and recover stolen property.