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From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
The Kaduna State Police Command has foiled an attack by suspected cattle rustlers in Illa Village, Igabi Local Government Area of the state, recovering 39 stolen cows following a gun battle with the assailants.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, November 7, 2026, when armed men reportedly invaded the community, rustled cattle belonging to three Fulani herders and shot a 25-year-old man, identified as Abubakar, in both legs.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the Divisional Police Officer of Rigachikun Division received a distress call at about 5:00 a.m. from one Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, a resident of Illa Village, reporting the attack.
Hassan said the attack had occurred around 4:00 a.m., prompting an immediate response from security operatives.
“On receipt of the report, a combined team of Police operatives led by the O/C Amana Outpost, local vigilantes (CJTF) and villagers swiftly mobilized, pursued the suspects into the bush and engaged them in a gun duel,” the statement said.
The police spokesman disclosed that the suspected rustlers had abandoned all 39 stolen cows and fled into the bush with suspected gunshot injuries following the exchange of fire.
“Consequently, the rustlers abandoned the 39 stolen cows and escaped into the bush with gunshot injuries,” Hassan stated.
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He added that eight rounds of ammunition had been expended during the confrontation.
Meanwhile, the injured victim was rushed to Shika Teaching Hospital, where he is currently responding to treatment.
The recovered cattle have also been handed over to their rightful owners.
Commending the security operatives and community members for their swift intervention, the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State, CP Muhammad Rabiu, praised what he described as their gallantry and effective collaboration.
The police commissioner also reassured residents of the command’s commitment to intensifying operations against cattle rustling and other criminal activities across the state.
The latest incident highlights the importance of collaboration between security agencies, local vigilantes and community members in tackling rural insecurity and protecting lives and property in Kaduna State.
