The Gombe State Police Command has dismantled a suspected livestock theft syndicate, arresting four suspects in connection with the crime.
During a press briefing, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, detailed the operation that led to the arrests.
According to Abdullahi, the suspects were apprehended during a joint patrol by the Billiri Division on January 10 at approximately 2:45 a.m.
He stated that the arrested suspects include Mohammed Garba, 55, from Pantami Quarters, Gombe; Idi Salisu, 27; Umar Babale, 39, both from Lafiya-Lamurde Local Government Area of Adamawa State; and Umar Jalo, 25, from Kumo village in Akko Local Government Area.
The police intercepted the suspects while they were transporting a stolen cow in a Hummer bus with registration number LND 864 XA.
Further investigation revealed that the suspects were acting on the instructions of one Alhaji Halilu, alias S.Y. Lafiya, who allegedly orchestrated the theft.
They were tasked with receiving stolen cattle from Kembu village in Akko Local Government Area and Filiya.
DSP Abdullahi stated that Umar Jalo was found in possession of a stolen cow during the investigation.
Jalo reportedly confessed to stealing the animal, alongside an accomplice known only as Dogo, from Garin Majidadi village near Kumo. The cow has since been returned to its rightful owner, Alhaji Mohammed Ahmadu.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the mastermind, Dogo, who remains at large. Meanwhile, police have intensified coordination among divisions, including Akko and Pero-Chonge Police Stations, to dismantle the notorious cattle theft network.
Authorities have vowed to charge the suspects once investigations are concluded, while sending a stern warning against livestock theft in the state.
