The Kogi State Government says it has recovered no fewer than 1,000 rustled livestock from bandits in a joint operation with federal and local security agencies.

According to a Vanguard report, the operation involved the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Hybrid Forces from the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes, and hunters. 2ac3

The recovered animals were linked to the gang of the late notorious bandit leader, Battijo, and other criminal groups operating in parts of the state.

This comes weeks after Kogi security forces also recorded successes against banditry. In early June 2026, police said they arrested a key suspect and recovered 100 cattle after an attack on Ayegunle Community in Kabba/Bunu LGA allegedly masterminded by Battijo.

The Kogi government has been intensifying joint operations with the military, DSS, police and local hunters to curb kidnapping, cattle rustling and attacks in rural communities.

Source: Vanguard Newspapers