A suspected cattle rustler was arrested at the Ajase-Ipo market in Kwara State after five stolen cows dramatically recognized their original owners, exposing the suspect to onlookers and security operatives.
An unusual drama unfolded at the Ajase-Ipo market in the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State when five stolen cows recognized their true owners, leading to the immediate arrest of a suspected cattle rustler. The incident occurred on January 11, 2026, as the busy livestock market was winding down for the evening. A 30-year-old man identified as Mohammed Jabi, a native of Niger State residing in Patigi, Kwara State, had quietly displayed five cows for sale. Unknown to prospective buyers, a group of herders who had spent days tracking their rustled livestock arrived at the scene and began inspecting the displayed animals without drawing attention to themselves.
The atmosphere in the crowded arena shifted dramatically when the herders approached the specific section where Jabi’s livestock was secured. The five cows suddenly became highly agitated, pulling against their ropes and making low vocalizations directly toward the approaching herders. Witnessing the spectacle, local trader Danjuma Bature explained that the animals clearly recognized the men before any verbal claims were made. “What made the development even more striking was that the herders had not yet claimed ownership of the cows. But the animals appeared to have recognised them first. This is normal because cattle recognise their owners. This belief has existed for generations because of years of grazing together, feeding routines and constant interaction. It creates a bond that animals rarely forget. Cattle possess the ability to recognise familiar voices, faces and routines even after long periods of separation from their owners. That was what played out at the market,” Bature explained, noting that Jabi completely failed to provide convincing explanations when confronted.
Following the identification of the animals’ distinct physical markings, market authorities intervened and alerted security operatives attached to the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Task Force. Investigations subsequent to Jabi’s detention revealed that he was allegedly operating on the directives of a prominent bandit commander named Bachujo, who oversees a criminal network spanning the forest corridors of Kwara, Niger, and Kogi states. Authorities suspect the stolen herd was brought to the market to be liquidated for food and logistics to support the camp’s operations. While the cows have been successfully returned to their rightful owners, security agencies have intensified their search to track down and apprehend the remaining members of the syndicate.
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