A Divisional Police Officer in Rimi Local Government Area of Katsina State, Muhammad Sani Kabir, has been killed while leading a security operation against suspected cattle rustlers.
The incident was confirmed by the Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, which said the officer died in the line of duty during a joint operation involving security operatives and community members.
The ministry also disclosed that three suspected rustlers were neutralised in the encounter.
Commissioner for Internal Security, Nasir Mu’azu, said the operation followed distress reports from local leaders about the presence of armed rustlers in Magaji town.
Security personnel were mobilised immediately, leading to a confrontation that stretched into the early hours of the morning, during which several stolen cattle were recovered.
According to the ministry, the DPO personally led a follow-up raid on the suspects’ location.
During the gun battle, his rifle reportedly malfunctioned, leaving him vulnerable before he was fatally shot by one of the attackers identified as their leader.
Three security operatives injured in the clash are currently receiving treatment at Katsina Teaching Hospital, while the late officer’s remains have been taken to Zaria in Kaduna State for burial.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda commended the bravery of security personnel and residents who supported the operation, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to tackle banditry and protect communities across the state.
