By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Katsina State Government has mourned the death of Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rimi Local Government Area of Katsina State, Muhammad Sani Kabir, who was killed during an operation against suspected cattle rustlers.
The incident followed late-night reports received on Friday, 13 February, 2026 from community leaders about the presence of suspected rustlers in Magaji town, under Maje-Gobir Ward, according to the state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu.
After verifying the intelligence, the DPO mobilised security personnel to the area, a move the Commissioner said was aimed at repelling the attackers and recovering stolen livestock.
Mu’azu explained that the suspects had allegedly 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,” he said.
He added that the rustlers later retreated towards neighbouring Charanchi Local Government Area, where they again exchanged gunfire with residents. Security forces, backed by local vigilantes, subsequently engaged the suspects in a renewed battle.
Providing further details, the Commissioner said Kabir 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,” Mu’azu stated.
The Commissioner described Maigemu as one of the armed bandit leaders who had refused to embrace ongoing peace efforts in the state.
“Maigemu was among the bandits in Katsina State who refused to accept the peace accord. Security operatives have been actively pursuing him, as he continues to evade capture and reportedly enforces his own unlawful rules in the area,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mu’azu disclosed that three security personnel sustained injuries during the operation and are currently receiving treatment at the Katsina Teaching Hospital.
He further confirmed that the remains of the late officer were taken to a medical facility for examination before being released to his family. Kabir’s body, he said, was subsequently transferred to Zaria in Kaduna State for burial.
The ministry expressed condolences over the officer’s death, noting that his sacrifice would not be forgotten.
“The Ministry commends the courage of security personnel and community members and reaffirms Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s commitment to supporting all efforts to rid the state of criminals and ensure residents’ safety,” the statement added.
