Suspected cattle rustlers intercepted in Katsina, 50 animals recovered

The Katsina State Police Command said it has intercepted suspected cattle rustlers in Jibia Local Government Area of the state, arresting one suspect and recovering 50 animals allegedly stolen from residents.

According to a statement issued by the command’s spokesman, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyuhe, the incident occurred on Saturday when suspected armed bandits attacked Kwarara village in Jibia and rustled livestock.

He said the police received a distress call at about 7:30pm and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Jibia immediately mobilised a patrol team of the Vigilance and Community Response Unit (VCRU), alongside operatives of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps (KSCWC).

The security operatives reportedly tracked the suspects and intercepted them around the Jibia Dam Site, where a gun battle ensued.

According to the police, the suspects were overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the security team and fled, abandoning the livestock.

Some of the fleeing suspects were believed to have sustained gunshot injuries.

The police said one of the suspected rustlers, a 22-year-old man identified as Ibrahim, alias “Daura”, was arrested during a search of the area.

The recovered livestock comprised 15 cows and 35 sheep. The statement said, the suspect is currently assisting the police in their investigation and efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate.