OYO STATE, Nigeria — Security concerns have resurfaced in Oyo State following the arrest of two suspected cattle rustlers by the Oyo State Police Command, even as residents remain on edge after the recent killing of forest guards in Oloka town.
The suspects, identified as Abu Muhammed and Aliu Bello, were arrested after police received a report at the Iresa-Adu Police Division, prompting a swift response that led to the recovery of 26 stolen cows valued at approximately N6.25 million.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayin, the Command confirmed the arrests and credited the operation’s success to strong collaboration between the police and local community security structures.
“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the public that two suspected cattle rustlers, Abu Muhammed and Aliu Bello, have been apprehended following a swift response to a report received at Iresa-Adu Division,” the statement read. “During the operation, twenty-six stolen cows, estimated at N6,250,000, were successfully recovered, reflecting the tangible results of coordinated police and community efforts in protecting property and livelihoods.”
According to police, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were intercepted while attempting to conceal the stolen cattle at Odojaye via Aganyan, Iresa-Adu. During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to the crime and provided information about their wider criminal network.
Police said investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate and recover additional stolen livestock.
“The operation underscores the effectiveness of proactive policing, intelligence-led investigations, and collaboration with community security agencies in tackling criminal activities,” the Command added.
However, residents of Iresa-Adu, a border town in Surulere Local Government Area, say the arrests highlight deeper security challenges. The town, which borders Kwara and Osun states, has reportedly been without its first-class monarch, the Aresa of Iresa-Adu, for nearly nine years.
Community members expressed concern that the prolonged vacancy of the traditional stool has weakened coordination among surrounding towns and villages, affecting community-based security efforts. The concerns have intensified amid reports of banditry and kidnapping in neighboring Kwara State.
Residents believe that installing a new Aresa of Iresa-Adu would strengthen unity among border communities and improve collaboration with the Oyo State Government and security agencies to curb criminal infiltration.
As cattle rustling, banditry, and kidnapping continue to pose nationwide security threats, the Oyo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
“Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang and recover the remaining stolen livestock, demonstrating the Command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that all perpetrators are brought to justice,” police said.
