A mysterious incident in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State has left 32 cows dead, with police suspecting a lightning strike during a heavy downpour as the likely cause.
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed that the lifeless animals were discovered in a forest near Osara Community on Saturday, June 21, following a rainstorm that swept through the area.
The cattle, jointly owned by two herders, were found sprawled across the forest floor with no visible injuries.
Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Omolola Odutola, said the incident was reported at the Aregbe Divisional Headquarters around 4:40 p.m. by the herders, who said they believed the deaths were caused by a thunderstorm accompanied by intense lightning.
“A prompt on-the-spot assessment was carried out by the Divisional Police Officer. There were no signs of violence or foul play on the carcasses, and the owners have not accused anyone of wrongdoing,” the statement read.
While the exact monetary value of the loss is yet to be determined, the area has been cordoned off as a precaution. The Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, has urged members of the public to remain calm and view the incident as a natural occurrence.
The police say investigations are ongoing to confirm the exact cause of the mass death, although no suspicion of criminal activity has been raised.