Kaduna Police Thwart Cattle Rustlers, Recover 39 Cows in Illa Village

The Kaduna State Police Command has successfully thwarted an attack by suspected cattle rustlers in Illa Village, located in the Igabi Local Government Area. The incident unfolded early on Friday, November 7, 2026, when armed assailants invaded the community, targeting cattle owned by three Fulani herders. In the midst of the chaos, a 25-year-old man named Abubakar sustained serious gunshot wounds to both legs.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the distress call was made at approximately 5 am by one Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar from Illa Village. In response, a coordinated effort was launched, involving a team of police operatives led by the Officer-in-Charge of Amana Outpost. They were joined by local vigilantes and community members, who quickly mobilized to pursue the fleeing rustlers into the nearby bush.

The resulting encounter was marked by a fierce exchange of gunfire, during which the police engaged the rustlers, compelling them to abandon the stolen livestock and retreat, likely suffering injuries in the process. Reports indicate that eight rounds of ammunition were fired during the confrontation. Following the incident, the injured victim was transported to Shika Teaching Hospital for medical treatment, where he is currently responding well to care.

In a show of community spirit and cooperation, the 39 recovered cows have been returned to their rightful owners. The Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Rabiu, praised the swift action of the police operatives and the invaluable assistance of local residents. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of cattle rustling in Nigeria and the need for continued collaboration between law enforcement and communities to enhance security.