The Ogun State Police Command has apprehended two suspected cattle rustlers, Mohammed Mosque and Olaseinde Olatunji, for allegedly stealing a cow valued at ₦1,700,000.00 from a dairy farm located in Ibogun, Ifo Local Government Area.
Arrest Details
The suspects were arrested on Thursday at approximately 2:30 am after they invaded the farm at Omitoro Village via Coker, Ibogun. They reportedly used a knife and an operational vehicle to steal the cow. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed the incident in a statement released in Abeokuta, the state capital.
According to Babaseyi, the arrest followed a distress call that prompted operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team to mobilize to the scene. The suspects were caught attempting to escape with a mini bus, commonly known as 'Korope'.
Investigation Findings
Preliminary investigations revealed that the two arrested individuals were part of a four-man gang. The other two accomplices managed to escape into the surrounding bush. Exhibits recovered from the suspects include the stolen cow, one knife, and the operational mini bus used in the crime.
The operational vehicle has been secured at the Ibogun SWAT office, while the stolen cow was photographed for evidential purposes and subsequently released to its owner after receiving necessary attention.
“The suspects are currently in custody, while investigation is ongoing. Efforts are being intensified to track down and apprehend the fleeing members of the gang. The case will be transferred to the appropriate investigative unit for further discreet investigation and prosecution,” Babaseyi added.
Police Commitment
The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the swift response of the operatives and assured the public that the Command remains resolute in its commitment to rid the state of criminal elements.
