By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
The Oyo State government has intensified its clampdown on open grazing and seized five cows found being herded along the busy Molete dual carriageway in Ibadan, the state capital.
The seizure, enforced by the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), was part of efforts to ensure environmental and public safety regulations.
The enforcement team was led by the Chairman of the State Environmental Task Force, Deputy Commissioner of Police Francis Ojomo 9retd), alongside the Chief of Staff to the OYRLEA Chairperson, Iyabode Akinbode.
According to the government, the exercise also targeted illegal street trading activities in key commercial areas, including Challenge, Gate, and Molete, which have long been identified as hotspots for environmental and traffic violations.
Eyewitnesses said the cattle were intercepted while roaming freely on the dual carriageway, creating potential hazards for motorists and pedestrians, and were promptly impounded by officials on duty.
Tensions reportedly arose during the operation in the Challenge area where some suspected miscreants were said to have attempted to obstruct enforcement activities and disrupt the process.
However, the situation was immediately brought under control through the intervention of security personnel.
Four individuals were apprehended during the operation for allegedly obstructing law-enforcement officers and breaching environmental laws and have been arraigned before a court.
According to the authorities, the enforcement actions would be sustained and carried out without exception, and warned that violators would be made to face the full wrath of the law.
