By ZUBAIRU IDRIS

The Katsina State Police Command has confirmed the killing of three suspected bandits, and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rimi Local Government Area, CSP Muhammad Sani-Kabir, during a gun battle on Friday.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Aliyu Abubakar, on Friday in Katsina.

He said that: “Today, Feb. 13, 2026, at about 02:00 p.m., some suspected bandits, armed with dangerous weapons shooting sporadically, attacked Magaje village, Rimi LGA, and rustled a number of animals and escaped the scene before the arrival of police operatives.

“Upon receipt of the report, quickly, the DPO Rimi, in collaboration with neighbouring divisions, and the Military, mobilised operatives and responded to the scene.

“The team successfully tracked and intercepted the suspected bandits at Magaje village, where a gun duel ensued.”

He revealed that the team successfully recovered all the rustled animals and neutralised three suspected bandits.

The PPRO, however, revealed that “regrettably, the DPO was fatally shot by the bandits, and one policeman sustained a gunshot injury to his hand.

“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, while commending the act of valour and camaraderie displayed by the joint security team, condemned the unfortunate incident.

He also mourned the officer, describing him as an upright, honest, and professional police officer.

Shehu condoled with the immediate family and friends of the deceased officer. (NAN)

Update news