The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has clarified that the control of roaming cows within Abuja is not primarily the responsibility of the police.

The command’s spokesperson explained that while the police could intervene when the movement of cattle resulted in criminal activity, accidents or threats to public safety, the regulation of livestock movement falls under the responsibility of relevant authorities.

The clarification followed concerns over the increasing presence of roaming cattle on roads and in residential areas of the nation’s capital.

The police spokesperson said residents should not expect the command to take primary responsibility for managing livestock or enforcing regulations relating to cattle movement.

He, however, assured residents that the police would respond where the activities of herders or cattle created security challenges or resulted in violations of the law.

The command urged relevant agencies and authorities responsible for livestock management to take appropriate measures to address the problem.

It also called on residents to report situations involving roaming cattle where there was an immediate threat to lives, property or public safety.

The police said maintaining public safety remained its responsibility, while issues outside its statutory mandate should be handled by the appropriate government agencies.