The Divisional Police Officer of Rimi Local Government Area in Katsina State, CSP Muhammad Sani Kabir, has been killed while leading an operation against suspected cattle rustlers.
The Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs confirmed the incident on Friday, stating that three suspected rustlers were also neutralised during the joint operation carried out by security operatives and community members.
In a statement, the Commissioner of the ministry, Nasir Mu’azu, described the officer’s death as a painful loss, noting that Kabir was killed in the line of duty while personally leading the operation.
According to the ministry, reports were received late at night from community leaders in Rimi, including the ward councillor, APC members, the Village Head of Karare and the District Head of Rimi, about suspected rustlers sighted in Magaji town under Maje-Gobir Ward.
Following verification, the DPO quickly mobilised security operatives to the area.
The suspects were said to have invaded Magajen Gobir, prompting residents to confront them. The clash reportedly lasted until the early hours of the morning, around the time of dawn prayers, during which most of the stolen cattle were recovered.
The ministry added that during subsequent confrontations in nearby communities, two men and several young girls were reportedly shot, though many of the stolen animals were successfully retrieved through the combined efforts of security agents and residents.
The statement further revealed that security operatives, supported by local vigilantes, later tracked the rustlers to another location, where the DPO led another engagement.
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During the gun battle, Kabir’s rifle allegedly malfunctioned, and he was fatally shot by a rustler identified as the gang leader, Maigemu.
Three security personnel who sustained injuries during the operation are currently receiving treatment at Katsina Teaching Hospital.
Meanwhile, the remains of the late police officer have been handed over to his family in Zaria, Kaduna State, for burial.
The ministry praised the bravery of both the security forces and local residents, while reaffirming Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s commitment to eliminating criminal activities in the state.
It also offered prayers for the late officer, asking Almighty Allah to grant him Aljannatul Firdausi, and stated that his sacrifice would not be forgotten.
