Katsina: A fierce shootout in Rimi Local Government Area left Divisional Police Officer CSP Muhammad Sani‑Kabir and three suspected bandits dead, the Katsina State Police Command confirmed Friday.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Aliyu Abubakar, issued a statement about the incident on Friday in Katsina.
He said: “On Feb. 13, 2026, at about 2:00 p.m., suspected bandits armed with dangerous weapons shot sporadically as they attacked Magaje village, Rimi LGA, rustled a number of animals, and escaped before police operatives arrived.”
Upon receipt of the report, the DPO Rimi quickly mobilised operatives, in collaboration with neighbouring divisions and the Military, and responded to the scene.
The team tracked and intercepted the suspected bandits at Magaje village, where a gun duel ensued.
He revealed that all the rustled animals had been recovered and that three suspected bandits had been neutralised.
He added that, regrettably, the DPO was fatally shot, and one policeman sustained a hand injury.
“The injured officer has been rushed to the nearest hospital for medical attention and is responding to treatment.”
The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command, Mr Bello Shehu, commended the act of valour and camaraderie displayed by the joint security team, but condemned the unfortunate incident.
He mourned the officer, describing him as an upright, honest, and professional police officer.
Shehu extended condolences to the officer’s family and friends.
