Bandit Killed as Police Rescue Three Kidnap Victims, Recover Rustled Cows in Katsina

By Taibat Ummi Yakubu 

Security operatives in Katsina State have recorded another breakthrough against banditry after killing a suspected bandit, rescuing three kidnap victims and recovering 12 rustled cows during separate operations in Kankia and Musawa Local Government Areas.

The Katsina State Police Command disclosed the development on Thursday, saying the successful operations were carried out through coordinated efforts involving police personnel and local vigilante groups.

According to the command, the first incident occurred on the night of October 6 when armed bandits invaded Fakuwa village in Kankia Local Government Area, abducting three residents and making away with 12 cows belonging to villagers.

Police operatives, working alongside vigilantes, quickly responded to the attack and intercepted the fleeing criminals. A fierce exchange of gunfire followed, forcing the attackers to abandon their captives and flee into nearby hideouts with suspected gunshot injuries.

The operation led to the safe rescue of the three abducted victims identified as Jamila Alti, 50; Aisha Alti, 15; and Alhaji Dalladi, 60.

Police said all three victims were rescued unharmed and reunited with their families, while the 12 stolen cows were successfully recovered.

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In a separate operation a few hours later, security operatives responded to intelligence reports that armed bandits had mounted a roadblock along the Kiryoyi–Dangani Road in Musawa Local Government Area, creating fear among commuters and residents.

The command's Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) was immediately deployed to the area, where operatives confronted the suspects in another gun battle.

The bandits were eventually forced to retreat under heavy pressure from the security team.

Following the confrontation, police launched a cordon-and-search operation across the area and discovered the body of a suspected bandit believed to have been killed during the exchange of fire. The suspect was reportedly found with a machete.

Authorities said efforts were ongoing to track down and apprehend other members of the gang who escaped from the scene.

Reacting to the operations, Katsina State Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Abubakar Musa Fage, praised the officers and vigilantes involved for their bravery, commitment and professionalism.

He reiterated the command’s determination to sustain the fight against banditry and other violent crimes across the state.

The police commissioner also appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence, noting that community cooperation remains vital to ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity and protect lives and property across Katsina State.