The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has impounded 19 cows in Iseyin Local Government Area following allegations of repeated destruction of farmlands by grazing cattle.

The action followed a petition by a farmer, prompting the Authority to launch an enforcement operation against illegal grazing in the area.

According to a statement, OYRLEA‘s enforcement team carried out an early morning operation to intercept the herders and their cattle before they could leave the affected farmlands.

The Authority said 19 cows were seized and taken into its custody in line with the provisions of the state’s anti-open grazing law, adding that efforts were underway to identify the owners for appropriate legal action.

Chairperson of OYRLEA, retired Justice Aderonke Aderemi, said the operation formed part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to protect farmers, preserve food production and ensure compliance with the laws of Oyo State.

She warned herders against grazing on cultivated lands and farm settlements, stressing that offenders would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Aderemi also assured residents and farmers across the state of the Authority’s commitment to responding promptly to petitions, urging members of the public to report cases of illegal grazing and other activities capable of threatening public peace and farmers’ livelihoods.