The Katsina State Police Command has foiled an attempted cattle rustling attack in Jibia Local Government Area, recovering 20 stolen cows after a gun battle with armed bandits.
According to the police, the incident occurred on June 24, 2026, at about 2:40 p.m., when the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Jibia Division received a distress call that heavily armed bandits had attacked Korama Mai Zurfi village and rustled 20 cows.
The DPO immediately mobilized operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) in collaboration with local vigilantes to the scene. The security team strategically blocked the escape routes of the bandits, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
The police said the operatives overpowered the bandits through superior firepower and tactical operations, forcing the attackers to abandon all 20 rustled cows and flee into the bush with varying degrees of gunshot wounds.
The recovered cattle were safely returned, while security operatives intensified preventive measures in the area. Police also launched an aggressive manhunt to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command, CP Ali Umar Fage, commended the officers and local vigilantes for their swift response, bravery, and effective teamwork during the operation. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
The police also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and useful information that would help in the fight against crime. The Command assured residents that all information received would be treated with strict confidentiality.