IGP Calls For Global Alliance To Tackle Cattle Rustling, Terrorism Financing In Africa
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has called for stronger international collaboration to combat the rising threats of cattle rustling and terrorism financing in Africa.
Speaking at the 27th INTERPOL African Regional Conference in Cape Town, South Africa, Egbetokun warned that cattle rustling has evolved from a localised nuisance into a transnational criminal enterprise fuelling terrorism, cross-border crimes, and insecurity.
He also highlighted the growing link between livestock theft and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE) threats, including zoonotic diseases and the trafficking of radiological materials.
The police chief outlined six response pillars: intelligence fusion, livestock market reforms, anti-money laundering measures, stronger border cooperation, community partnerships, and CBRNE preparedness.
He called for a global alliance to safeguard Africa’s livestock economy and block extremist exploitation of regional vulnerabilities.
On the sidelines of the conference, Egbetokun met with INTERPOL President Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi, Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza, and a Brazilian delegation to strengthen Nigeria’s policing cooperation, intelligence sharing, and capacity against organised crime.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to working with partners across Africa and beyond to secure peace, stability, and resilience.
