By Victoria Okpanachi
The Kogi State Government, in collaboration with the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Hybrid Forces from the Office of the National Security Adviser, the DSS, the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes and hunters, has recovered about 1,000 rustled livestock in coordinated operations targeting remnants of the late bandit kingpin, Kachalla Ibrahim Battijo, and other cattle-rustling syndicates operating in Kogi and across the North Central region.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, the government said over 200 of the recovered animals were traced to Battijo’s network, while the rest were seized from other armed groups attempting to move stolen livestock through Kogi State to raise funds for arms and logistics.
According to Hon. Fanwo, credible intelligence enabled security operatives to track the movement of the criminals and engage them in gun battles at different locations.
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Several bandits were neutralised, while others fled with bullet wounds, abandoning the livestock, revealing that those who escaped are currently being trailed.
“The remnants of Battijo’s gang have become increasingly desperate following the elimination of their kingpin,” Fanwo said.
“I can confirm that many of the flies that chose to follow the corpse to the grave have now been buried alongside it, while those who escaped are being actively tracked. They will not escape justice.”
The Commissioner disclosed that the recovered livestock are being kept in a secure location in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, pending identification and return to their rightful owners.
He commended the NSA, Chief of Army Staff, Inspector-General of Police, DG DSS, and all security operatives, vigilantes and hunters for their professionalism and collaboration, describing the operation as another major milestone in the state’s war against criminality.
“Our feet will remain firmly on the pedals until we rid Kogi State of criminal elements and restore the confidence of our people to sleep with both eyes closed,” he stated.
Hon. Fanwo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining the offensive, noting that the administration will continue to maximise security support provided by President Bola Tinubu to safeguard lives and property.
The government also urged residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence, assuring that all information will be treated with utmost confidentiality.
