Ondo Police Arrest Three Suspected Cattle Rustlers, Recover Stolen Livestock, Weapons

THE Ondo State Police Command has apprehended three men suspected of rustling cattle from a ranch in Okeigbo, Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects — identified as Bello Abdullahi, 61; Lawal Bello, 62; and Segun Bamidele, 43 — were said to have launched a coordinated attack on a cattle ranch belonging to one Alfa Abdullahi, during which the owner and his son were reportedly attacked with machetes while attempting to stop the culprits.

According to police sources, officers swiftly responded following a distress report, deploying intelligence-led operations, tactical units and available technology to track and intercept the fleeing suspects.

The operation led to the recovery of the stolen cattle, the arrest of the three suspects, as well as the retrieval of the vehicle allegedly used in the crime. Police operatives also recovered a stolen motorcycle belonging to the complainant and weapons reportedly used by the suspects.

Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the personnel involved for their timely and coordinated response, noting that the arrest demonstrated the Command’s strengthened capacity for proactive crime prevention and rapid intervention.

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property throughout the forthcoming Christmas season and beyond, adding that measures are being intensified to maintain peace across the state.

CP Lawal also directed all Divisional Police Officers and tactical commanders to remain on high alert and ensure robust security coverage in their areas of responsibility.

The Command expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his leadership and continuous support, which it said has enhanced policing efficiency in the state.

Residents were urged to stay vigilant, cooperate with security agencies and promptly report any suspicious activity to aid ongoing efforts towards a safer Ondo State.