The Sokoto State Police Command on Tuesday thwarted a cattle rustling attempt in Goronyo Local Government Area, recovering an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and stolen livestock during a swift intelligence-led operation.
According to a statement from the Command, the incident occurred on Saturday, February 1, 2026, after the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department received a distress call about armed suspects rustling sheep in Tajaye Village.
Acting on the alert, detectives teamed up with officers from the Salame Division and mobilised to the area. Their investigations traced the suspects and stolen animals to the outskirts of Kola Village in neighbouring Gwadabawa LGA.
On sighting the police, supported by local vigilantes and Community Guard Watch members, the suspects opened fire in an attempt to escape. The combined security team overpowered them, forcing the criminals to flee into the bush with suspected gunshot wounds, abandoning their weapons and loot.
A search of the area led to the recovery of:
- One AK-47 rifle
- One loaded magazine
- 24 rounds of live ammunition
- All rustled livestock, which were returned to their owners
Commending the operation, Commissioner of Police Ahmed Musa praised the officers’ professionalism and the vital role of community support. He stressed that the success highlights the importance of collaboration between security agencies and local residents in tackling crime.
Musa assured that efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects, believed to be receiving treatment for gunshot injuries. He also lauded the community members whose timely distress call triggered the rapid response, describing public cooperation as essential to effective policing.
The Command urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, promising confidentiality for all tips. Emergency contact numbers were provided for swift communication with the police.
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