Troops of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, operating under Operation Golden Peace, have arrested three suspected cattle rustlers and recovered a large number of stolen livestock in Taraba State.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Acting Spokesperson of the Brigade, Captain Oni Olubodunde, the arrests were made on January 27, 2025, at Namnai village in Gassol Local Government Area, following an intelligence-led operation.

The suspects—identified as Sabiu Lawal, Haruna Ayuba, and Yusuf Mukawo, all hailing from Kampanin Zurak in Plateau State—were apprehended in possession of 174 cows and 57 sheep, reportedly stolen from border communities between Plateau and Taraba States.

Preliminary investigations, according to the military, indicate that the rustled animals were being moved through Karamati in Gashaka Local Government Area with the intention of smuggling them into Cameroon.

Captain Olubodunde stated that efforts are currently underway to trace the rightful owners of the livestock and ensure their safe return.

Reaffirming its dedication to fighting crime and restoring peace, the Brigade called on residents to continue providing security agencies with credible information to support ongoing security operations across the state.