Security operatives in Katsina thwart attempted raid by bandits, recover 117 head of stolen cattle

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The Katsina State Police Command says a joint security operation involving the military and members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps has foiled a cattle rustling attempt and recovered 117 livestock allegedly stolen by suspected bandits in Charanchi Local Government Area of the state.

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The command disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday by its Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, who said the operation followed credible intelligence on the activities of armed bandits in Saburu and Billiri villages.

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According to the police spokesman, security operatives swiftly mobilised after receiving intelligence on the attack, leading to a gun battle that forced the suspects to abandon the stolen animals and flee.

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He said, “On June 30, 2026, at about 6:00 pm, credible intelligence was received at Charanchi Division that some suspected bandits, armed with dangerous weapons, had invaded Saburu and Billiri villages in Charanchi LGA, rustling domestic livestock.

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“The DPO immediately mobilised tactical teams, collaborating with the military and members of the KSCWC, to respond to the scene. The joint team tactically blocked the bandits’ anticipated exit routes, leading to a fierce gun duel. The superior firepower and tactics forced the hoodlums to flee, successfully foiling the attack.”

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Sadiq added that the operation led to the recovery of dozens of stolen animals, while efforts were ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects.

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He said, “Consequently, the team recovered forty-three (43) cows and seventy-four (74) sheep, totalling one hundred and seventeen (117) suspected rustled animals. Efforts are currently being intensified to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.”

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The police spokesman further stated that the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Aliyu Umar Fage, commended the operatives for the successful operation and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling criminal activities across the state.

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The statement added, “The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command, CP Aliyu Umar Fage, psc(+), mnips, highly commends the operatives for their gallantry, alertness, and excellent inter-agency synergy.

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“While reiterating the Command’s unwavering resolve to protect the lives and property of all citizens throughout the state, the CP urges members of the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting the Command’s efforts by providing timely and credible information on any suspicious criminal activities.”

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