The Divisional Police Officer of Rimi local government area of Katsina State, CSP Muhammad Kabir, on Friday lost his life to bandits.
Late Kabir was killed in the line of duty while leading an operation against suspected cattle rustlers.
This is according to the Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs who added that three rustlers were neutralised during the joint operation involving security operatives and community members.
“The Ministry expresses deep sorrow over the death of the Divisional Police Officer of Rimi, CSP Muhammad Sani Kabir, who was killed in the line of duty while leading the operation.
“According to credible sources in Rimi LGA, late-night reports were received from community leaders including the ward councillor, APC members, the Village Head of Karare, and the District Head of Rimi about suspected rustlers in Magaji town, under Maje-Gobir Ward. Upon verification, the DPO immediately mobilised security operatives to the area.
“The suspects reportedly invaded Magajen Gobir, prompting residents to organise and confront them. The ensuing confrontation lasted into the early hours of the morning, coinciding with Subh (dawn) prayers, during which most of the stolen cattle were recovered,” the State Commissioner of the Ministry, Nasir Mu’azu, wrote in a statement he released on the matter.
Muazu stated that during subsequent clashes in neighbouring areas, two men and several young girls were reportedly shot, though many stolen animals were retrieved thanks to the combined efforts of residents and security forces.
“Later, security operatives, supported by local vigilantes, engaged the rustlers again. The DPO personally led the operation 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, Maigemu,” he added.
