Three suspected cattle rustlers were killed during a joint security operation in Rimi Local Government Area of Katsina State, while the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rimi, CSP Muhammad Sani Kabir, lost his life in the line of duty.
The Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs confirmed the development on Thursday, describing the officer’s death as a painful loss to the state.
According to the ministry, the operation followed late-night reports from community leaders in Rimi, including the ward councillor, party officials, the Village Head of Karare and the District Head of Rimi, about the presence of suspected rustlers in Magaji town under Maje-Gobir Ward.
After verifying the reports, the DPO mobilised security operatives to the area. The suspects were said to have invaded Magajen Gobir, prompting residents to confront them alongside security personnel.
The confrontation reportedly lasted into the early hours of the morning, around the time of dawn prayers, with most of the stolen cattle recovered during the operation.
The rustlers later moved toward neighbouring Charanchi Local Government Area, passing through Kuraye town to Yanunko village, where another exchange occurred between the suspects and local residents.
The ministry said two men and several young girls were shot in Magaji town during the attack, although many of the rustled animals were recovered through the combined efforts of security operatives and community members.
In a subsequent engagement, the DPO personally led operatives, supported by local vigilantes, to the suspects’ location. During the gun battle, his rifle reportedly malfunctioned and he was fatally shot by one of the rustlers identified as their leader, known as Maigemu.
The ministry described Maigemu as one of the bandit leaders who refused to embrace ongoing peace efforts and had been on the radar of security agencies.
Three security personnel injured in the operation are currently receiving treatment at Katsina Teaching Hospital.
The remains of the late officer were taken to a medical facility before being released to his family in Zaria, Kaduna State, for burial.
In a statement, the ministry expressed condolences over the death of CSP Kabir and commended the bravery of security operatives and community members involved in the operation. It also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at restoring security across Katsina State.
