KATSINA POLICE FOIL CATTLE RUSTLING, RECOVER 554 ANIMALS AND WEAPONS

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Katsina State Police Command has successfully foiled a cattle rustling operation, recovering 554 rustled animals in Kafur Local Government Area of the state.

According to a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Aliyu Abubakar, the incident occurred in the early hours of February 6, 2026, when armed bandits reportedly stormed Sabuwar Kasa village, shooting sporadically and rustling herds of cows before fleeing the scene.

“Upon receipt of the report, nearby divisions were promptly notified. The DPO Malumfashi mobilised operatives, in collaboration with the military and members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps (KSCWC), to track and engage the hoodlums in a fierce gun duel,” Abubakar said. “The hoodlums dispersed due to superior tactics and firepower.”

The police successfully recovered 554 rustled animals, comprising 290 cows and 264 sheep.

In a separate operation on Sunday at around 12:05 a.m., a joint team of police and vigilante operatives attached to the Jibia division, while on intelligence-led patrols along Falale Forest, recovered one PKT, two AK-47 rifles, two magazines, and eight rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, suspected to have been hidden by criminal elements.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the recovered weapons and to identify those involved for further action.

The Police Commissioner, Mr Bello Shehu, commended the bravery and professionalism of the officers involved in both operations and reassured the public of the command’s commitment to enhancing safety and security across Katsina State.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing accurate and timely information to support police operations.