Security operatives foil cattle rustling in Katsina, recover 117 livestock

The Katsina State Police Command says a team of security operatives has foiled a cattle rustling attempt in Charanchi Local Government Area, recovering 117 livestock after a gun battle with suspected bandits.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Katsina.

He said the operation was carried out on Tuesday, following credible intelligence that armed bandits had invaded Saburu and Billiri villages in Charanchi LGA and rustled domestic animals.

According to him, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Charanchi immediately mobilised tactical teams in collaboration with the military and members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps (KSCWC) to intercept the suspects.

Sadiq-Aliyu said the joint security team strategically blocked the bandits’ suspected escape routes, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.

He said the superior firepower and coordinated tactics of the operatives forced the hoodlums to abandon the stolen animals and flee into the bush.

“The team successfully recovered 43 cows and 74 sheep, bringing the total number of recovered livestock to 117,” he said.

The police spokesman added that efforts were ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.

He said the Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Umar-Fage, commended the operatives for their gallantry, vigilance and effective collaboration with sister security agencies.

Sadiq-Aliyu said the commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.

According to him, Umar-Fage also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information on suspicious activities to security agencies.

NAN