Police foil banditry attempts in Katsina, rescue 18 victims, recover rustled cattle
The Katsina State Police Command has achieved a significant victory in its ongoing battle against banditry, rescuing 18 kidnapped victims and recovering rustled animals during two daring operations.
On January 3, 2025, at around 9:30 PM, armed bandits ambushed four vehicles on the Funtua-Gusau highway. The vehicles, including a Toyota Avensis, a DAF truck, and other commercial vehicles, were transporting 18 passengers when they came under attack.
According to a statement by ASP Abubakar Sadiq, the police spokesperson, the bandits were armed with AK-47 rifles and had begun shooting sporadically, attempting to kidnap all the occupants.
READ ALSO: Police foil kidnapping attempt in Katsina, 2 dead, 4 injured
Upon receiving the distress call, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Faskari promptly mobilised officers to the scene. A fierce gunfight ensued, during which the operatives successfully repelled the attack and rescued all 18 passengers unharmed.
On the same night, around 11:00 PM, another group of bandits targeted Gidan Gada village in Kafur Local Government Area, rustling an unspecified number of cattle.
Responding swiftly, the DPOs of Kafur and Malumfashi divisions mobilised their teams and tracked the bandits to the Fanisau area. After a heated exchange of gunfire, all the stolen cattle were recovered.
Unfortunately, the DPO of Kafur sustained a gunshot wound during the operation. He was immediately rushed to a hospital, where he is reportedly in stable condition and responding to treatment.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa, commended the bravery and swift action of the officers involved. He described the successful operations as a testament to the police’s commitment to eradicating banditry and ensuring the safety of citizens.
CP Musa also called on the public to provide timely information to security agencies, emphasizing that community collaboration is vital for proactive measures against criminal activities.
“Our officers will continue to work tirelessly to rid Katsina State of banditry and other criminal activities. We urge citizens to report suspicious activities and support security agencies with actionable intelligence,” the CP stated.
The two operations underline the dedication of the Katsina State Police Command in safeguarding lives and property. The police have vowed to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
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