The Katsina State Police Command says it has successfully foiled a cattle rustling operation and recovered dozens of stolen animals following a fierce gun battle with suspected armed bandits in the Bakori local government area. According to Channels Television, the operation marked a rare success in the continuing struggle against banditry and livestock theft in the state. The recovery of the animals offered relief to residents who had fallen victim to the raid.
According to the command, intelligence was received that heavily armed bandits had invaded Gidan Danmai village along the Gangarin to Makadi to Jargaba axis. There, the attackers rustled 12 cows and several sheep belonging to residents of the community. The information about the raid set in motion a swift security response aimed at recovering the stolen livestock before the bandits could disappear with them.
Acting quickly on the intelligence, the divisional police officer of Bakori Division mobilised operatives and worked alongside members of the local vigilante group to track the fleeing suspects. The collaboration between the police and community vigilantes reflected the role that local volunteers often play in the fight against banditry in rural areas. Together, the joint team set off in pursuit of the attackers.
The joint security team reportedly traced the bandits to the outskirts of Gidan Boshe village, where a heavy exchange of gunfire ensued between the criminals and the security forces. The confrontation tested the determination of the pursuing operatives, who pressed on despite the resistance. The clash became the decisive moment in the effort to recover the stolen animals.
Police said the bandits, overwhelmed by superior firepower and coordinated tactics, abandoned the stolen livestock and fled into the nearby bushes with suspected gunshot wounds. Their retreat allowed the security team to take control of the recovered animals and bring the immediate threat to an end. The outcome demonstrated the impact of timely intelligence and a coordinated response in countering such raids.
The command confirmed that all the recovered animals were returned to their owners, while efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and dismantle their network. By restoring the livestock to the affected residents, the police sought to reassure the community of their commitment to its safety. The continued pursuit of the suspects signalled that the authorities intend to follow through beyond the immediate recovery.