Bandits kill DPO in Katsina

Bandits have killed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Rimi Local Government Area of Katsina State, CSP Muhammad Sani Kabir, during an operation against suspected cattle rustlers, the state government has said.

The Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs confirmed that three suspected rustlers were neutralised in the joint operation involving security operatives and community members.

In a statement yesterday, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, expressed sorrow over the death of the officer, who was killed while leading the operation.

According to the statement, credible reports were received late at night from community leaders in Rimi Local Government Area, including a ward councillor, APC members, the village head of Karare and the district head of Rimi, about the presence of suspected rustlers in Magaji town, Maje-Gobir Ward. Upon verification, the DPO immediately mobilised security operatives to the area.

The suspects were said to have invaded Magajen Gobir, prompting residents to confront them. The clash lasted into the early hours of the morning, coinciding with Subh (dawn) prayers, during which most of the stolen cattle were recovered.

The statement added that during subsequent clashes in neighbouring areas, two men and several young girls were reportedly shot, although many of the stolen animals were retrieved through the combined efforts of residents and security forces.

“Later, security operatives, supported by local vigilantes, engaged the rustlers again, with the DPO personally leading the operation. During the gun battle, his rifle reportedly malfunctioned and he was fatally shot by one of the rustlers, identified as their leader, Maigemu,” Mu’azu said.

He said three security personnel injured in the operation are currently receiving treatment at the Katsina Teaching Hospital, while the remains of the late officer have been taken to Zaria, Kaduna State, for burial.

The ministry commended the bravery of the security operatives and community members, reaffirming Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s commitment to eliminating criminal elements and ensuring the safety of residents.

“The Ministry mourns the loss of CSP Muhammad Sani Kabir and prays Almighty Allah to grant him Aljannatul Firdausi, noting that his sacrifice in the line of duty will not be forgotten,” the statement said.

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