The Katsina State Police Command says its operatives have successfully foiled a cattle rustling attempt and recovered 554 rustled animals in the Kafur Local Government Area of the state.

This is contained in a statement by state police spokesperson DSP Aliyu Abubakar on Tuesday in Katsina.

He said, “On February 6, 2026, at about 12:10 a.m., information was received that some suspected bandits, armed with dangerous weapons, shooting sporadically, stormed Sabuwar Kasa village, Kafur LGA, Katsina State, and rustled herds of cows and escaped the scene before the arrival of security operatives.”

Mr Abubakar said that the DPO of Malumfashi, having mobilised operatives, in collaboration with the military and members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps (KSCWC), successfully tracked and engaged the hoodlums in a fierce gun duel.

“The hoodlums dispersed from the scene due to superior tactics and firepower,” he said.

Mr Abubakar stated that the team, therefore, successfully recovered 554 rustled animals, comprising 290 cows and 264 sheep.

He said that on Sunday, at about 12:05 a.m., a joint team of operatives, comprising the police and members of the vigilante attached to the Jibia division, while on intelligence-led patrols along Falale Forest, Jibia LGA, successfully recovered 1 PKT, 2 AK 47 rifles, two magazines, and 8 7.62mm live rounds neatly concealed in a place.

According to him, the weapons were suspected to be hidden by suspected hoodlums.

He further explained that investigations were ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding the exhibits and identify those involved for further necessary action.

The police commissioner, Bello Shehu, commended the professionalism displayed by the officers involved in both operations and assured the public of the command’s commitment to enhancing safety and security.

He encouraged the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting the command’s efforts with accurate, timely information.

(NAN)