Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Ogun State Police Command has arrested two suspected cattle rustlers and recovered a stolen cow valued at N1.7 million following a swift response to a distress call from a farmer in the Ifo/Ibogun area. The suspects, identified as Muhammed Monsur and Olaseinde Olatunji, were apprehended in the early hours of Thursday, 30 April 2026, by operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit.
The incident occurred at about 2:30 a.m. when a group of suspected rustlers invaded a dairy farm at Omitoro Village via Coker in the Ifo/Ibogun axis, making away with a cow. Upon receiving a distress call from the farmer, police operatives swiftly mobilised to the scene. The suspects attempted to flee in a commercial minibus, popularly known as a "Korope", but were intercepted after an alarm was raised due to their suspicious movements.
The prompt intervention led to the arrest of the two suspects. Police recovered the stolen cow, a knife believed to have been used during the operation, and the operational minibus. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are part of a four-man gang; two other accomplices managed to escape into the surrounding bush and are currently at large.
The Ogun State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Thursday. He noted that the operational vehicle has been secured at the Ibogun SWAT office, while the stolen cow was photographed for evidential purposes and subsequently released to its owner after receiving necessary attention.
"The suspects are currently in custody, while investigation is ongoing. Efforts are being intensified to track down and apprehend the fleeing members of the gang. The case will be transferred to the appropriate investigative unit for further discreet investigation and prosecution," Babaseyi said.
The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the swift response of the operatives and assured that the command remains resolute in its commitment to rid the state of criminal elements. He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through designated emergency lines.
Cattle rustling has become a growing concern in Ogun State, with farmers and herders facing significant economic losses. A 2025 report by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations estimated annual losses from cattle rustling at $432 million in Nigeria, highlighting the severe impact of this crime on livelihoods and food security. A recent surge in attacks has left many livestock owners devastated, with some abandoning the business altogether.
The successful recovery of the stolen cow and the arrest of the suspected rustlers mark a significant victory for law enforcement in the state. The police have intensified efforts to track down the remaining members of the gang and have assured the public that the suspects will face prosecution. The Ogun State Police Command has also called on residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely information to help curb criminal activities.
The arrested suspects are currently in custody, and investigations are ongoing.
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