A suspected cattle rustler was nabbed at the popular Ajase-Ipo livestock market in Kwara State after five allegedly stolen cows reportedly recognised their original owners, drawing the attention of traders and security operatives.
The incident occurred on January 11, 2026, at the bustling market located in Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state.
The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Mohammed Jabi, said to be a native of Niger State but resident in Patigi, Kwara State, had reportedly brought the five cows to the market for sale without attracting suspicion. 
Trouble, however, began when a group of herders searching for missing livestock arrived at the market and quietly inspected animals displayed for sale.
Eyewitnesses said the atmosphere changed when the herders approached the section where Jabi kept the cows.
The animals reportedly became restless, pulling against their ropes and making loud sounds toward the approaching herders.
A livestock trader at the market, Danjuma Bature, described the moment as unusual, noting that the cattle appeared to identify their owners even before any claim was made.
According to him, cattle often develop strong bonds with their handlers through years of grazing, feeding, and regular interaction, enabling them to recognise familiar voices, routines, and faces even after long periods of separation.
Bature added that the suspect could not give satisfactory explanations when confronted by traders and the herders.
Following the drama, market officials reportedly examined the animals’ physical markings and alerted security personnel attached to the Inspector-General of Police Special Task Force.
Preliminary investigations allegedly linked the suspect to a cattle-rustling syndicate operating across parts of Kwara, Niger and Kogi states.
Security sources claimed Jabi confessed to acting under the directives of a suspected bandit leader identified as Bachujo, who is believed to coordinate criminal activities within forest areas spanning the three states.
Authorities suspect the stolen cows were brought to the market to be sold in order to raise funds and supplies for the gang’s operations.
The recovered cows have since been returned to their owners, while security agencies have intensified efforts to arrest other members of the syndicate.
