Police Arrests Suspected Bandit Network Member After Kogi Attack, Recover 100 Rustled Cattle
Security operatives in Kogi State have arrested a key suspect linked to a bandit attack on Ayegunle Community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area and the Kabba–Obajana Road, recovering 100 cattle allegedly rustled during the operation.
The Kogi State Police Command said the suspect, identified as Ibrahim, is a member of a criminal network allegedly led by a notorious bandit kingpin known as Batijo.
The arrest followed a coordinated security response after a distress call was received in the early hours of June 1, 2026, reporting gunfire in Ayegunle Community.
Police spokesperson, ASP Oyiza Afusat, said the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Kankarofi, immediately deployed tactical teams comprising personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Kogi State Vigilante Service, Forest Guards, Civilian Joint Task Force, and other security stakeholders.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the attack was allegedly carried out on the orders of the suspected gang leader in retaliation for the arrest of some of his associates.
According to the police, the traditional ruler of Ayegunle Community, Oba Sunday Omodamori, was reportedly the main target of the attack, with the criminals allegedly planning to abduct him. The attempt failed as the monarch was not at his residence when the attackers invaded.
Attackers Abduct Residents, Target Highway Users
The police said the attackers later moved through parts of the community before proceeding to the Kabba–Obajana Road, where they blocked the highway and opened fire on vehicles in an attempt to force motorists to stop.
During the attack, a container truck driver was shot in both legs, while passengers travelling in two commercial buses were reportedly abducted.
The attackers also opened fire on another commercial bus after the driver refused to stop, killing one passenger, Abdullahi Hashimu, and injuring four others.
Police said about 30 people, including residents and travellers, were abducted during the incident.
Security teams later secured the area, rescued stranded passengers, and launched search-and-rescue operations to track the attackers and free the victims.
Security Forces Disrupt Criminal Network
The police said intelligence-led operations led security operatives deep into nearby forests, where they discovered that the attackers had rustled about 200 cattle while retreating from the community.
Following sustained operations and pressure on the criminals, the attackers abandoned about 100 cattle and fled.
The arrested suspect is currently assisting investigators and has reportedly provided information that has helped security agencies identify other members of the criminal group, including Aliyu, Lamido, Muhadahire, and Kache.
Police said efforts are ongoing to arrest the remaining suspects and dismantle the criminal network.
Police Assure Residents of Improved Security
The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Kankarofi, visited Ayegunle Community alongside the DSS leadership and other senior security officials to assess the situation and reassure residents.
During the visit, the police chief met with traditional leaders, community representatives, and other stakeholders, expressing sympathy over the attack and assuring them that security agencies were working to rescue those still in captivity and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Kankarofi commended the cooperation among security agencies and local security groups, saying the rapid response disrupted the criminals’ activities, led to the recovery of stolen livestock, and generated valuable intelligence.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing, stronger inter-agency cooperation, and proactive measures to improve security across Kogi State.
Residents were also urged to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts against criminal networks.
Security and Economic Impact
The attack highlights continuing security challenges affecting rural communities, transportation routes, and agricultural activities in parts of Nigeria.
Security experts note that protecting farming communities, highways, and livestock assets remains critical to food security, local economies, and investor confidence, particularly in regions dependent on agriculture