Three suspected armed bandits were neutralised by police in a joint operation in Magaje village, Rimi Local Government Area (LGA), Katsina State, after they reportedly attacked the community and rustled livestock in the early hours of Thursday, authorities said.

The attack occurred around 2:00 a.m., when the suspects, armed with dangerous weapons, began shooting sporadically while stealing animals. Residents alerted local authorities, prompting a rapid response from the Rimi Division Police, neighbouring units, and military personnel.

Police operatives successfully tracked the bandits and engaged them in a gun duel at Magaje village. All rustled livestock were recovered, and three suspects were neutralised.

Tragically, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rimi was fatally shot during the confrontation, while another officer sustained a gunshot wound to his hand. The injured officer has been hospitalised and is reported to be responding to treatment.

The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command, CP Bello Shehu, commended the valour and professionalism of the joint security team but expressed sorrow over the loss of the officer. “He was an upright, honest, and professional officer,” CP Shehu said, offering condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased.

DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, ANIPR, Police Public Relations Officer, issued the statement on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command.