Katsina DPO k!lled during gun battle with suspected cattle rustlers, police neutralise three attackers

The Divisional Police Officer of Rimi local government area of Katsina State, CSP Muhammad Sani Sagir Maude was k!lled while leading an operation against suspected cattle rustlers.  The incident occurred on Friday morning, February 13, 2026 after the officer and his team responded to a distress call over cattle rustling in Magaji town, under Maje-Gobir Ward.  The Commissioner for Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Muazu, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Friday said three rustlers were neutralised during the joint operation involving security operatives and community members.  According to Mu’azu, the gallant DPO was fatally shot by one of the rustlers, identified as their leader, Maigemu, after his rifle reportedly malfunctioned during the gun duel.  The Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs confirms that three cattle rustlers were neutralised during a joint operation involving security operatives and community members in Rimi Local Government Area, the statement read.  “The Ministry expresses deep sorrow over the d3ath of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rimi, CSP Muhammad Sani Kabir, who was k!lled in the line of duty while leading the operation.  “According to credible sources in Rimi LGA, late-night reports were received from community leadersincluding the ward councillor, APC members, the Village Head of Karare, and the District Head of Rimiabout 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.  “By morning, the rustlers lost their way and moved toward neighbouring Charanchi Local Government Area, passing through Kuraye town to Yanunko village.  “Another exchange of gunfire occurred between the criminals and local residents. Reports indicate that in Magaji town, the rustlers shot two men and several young girls, though many of the stolen animals were recovered thanks to the combined efforts of the community and security operatives. 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.  “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.  “Three security personnel injured during the operation are receiving treatment at Katsina Teaching Hospital.  “The remains of the late officer were taken to a medical facility for examination before being transferred to his family in Zaria, Kaduna State, for burial.  “The Ministry mourns the loss of CSP Muhammad Sani Kabir and prays for Almighty Allah to grant him Aljannatul Firdausi, noting that his sacrifice in the line of duty will not be forgotten.  The Ministry commends the courage of security personnel and community members and reaffirms Governor Dikko Umaru Raddas commitment to supporting all efforts to rid the state of criminals and ensure residents safety.”  The post Katsina DPO k!lled during gun battle with suspected cattle rustlers, police neutralise three attackers appeared first on Linda Ikeji Blog.