Bandits Kill Katsina DPO During Anti-Rustling Operation, Three Attackers Neutralised

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rimi Local Government Area in Katsina State, CSP Muhammad Sani Kabir, has been killed during an operation against suspected cattle rustlers, in what authorities described as a fierce overnight confrontation.

The incident occurred on Friday following reports of armed rustlers invading Magaji town in Maje-Gobir Ward. According to a statement issued by the Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, security operatives responded swiftly after receiving alerts from community leaders, including the ward councillor, members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and traditional rulers in the area.

State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed that the late officer personally led the joint operation, which involved police personnel and local vigilantes.

“Late-night reports were received about suspected rustlers in Magaji town. Upon verification, the DPO immediately mobilised security operatives to the area,” the statement read.

Residents reportedly organised themselves to confront the attackers, and the ensuing clash extended into the early hours of the morning, coinciding with Subh (dawn) prayers. During the confrontation, most of the stolen cattle were successfully recovered.

Authorities said that in subsequent engagements in neighbouring communities, two men and several young girls sustained gunshot injuries. However, security forces and vigilantes continued pursuit of the suspects.

During a later exchange of gunfire, CSP Kabir’s rifle reportedly malfunctioned at a critical moment, leaving him vulnerable. He was fatally shot by one of the rustlers, identified as their leader, known as Maigemu.

Despite the loss, security operatives neutralised three of the suspected attackers during the operation.

Three other security personnel sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the Katsina State Teaching Hospital. The remains of the fallen officer were conveyed to his family in Zaria, Kaduna State, for burial.

The ministry expressed deep sorrow over the officer’s death, describing him as courageous and committed to duty. Officials praised the collaboration between security agencies and community members, noting that their combined efforts led to the recovery of many stolen livestock.

The state government reaffirmed Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s commitment to tackling banditry and other forms of criminality across Katsina State. It also assured residents that operations against rustlers and armed groups would be intensified.

Banditry and cattle rustling have remained persistent security challenges in parts of northwestern Nigeria, particularly in rural communities where armed groups frequently target livestock and residents.

The ministry prayed for the repose of CSP Kabir’s soul, asking Almighty Allah to grant him Aljannatul Firdausi, and pledged that his sacrifice in the line of duty would not be forgotten.

The tragic incident underscores the ongoing risks faced by security personnel in the fight against organised criminal groups in the region, as authorities continue efforts to restore safety and stability to affected communities.