The Katsina State Police Command has confirmed the death of CSP Muhammad Sani-Kabir, Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rimi Local Government Area, during a gun battle with suspected bandits on Friday, February 13, 2026.
Three suspected bandits were also killed in the confrontation.
DSP Aliyu Abubakar, the Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), stated that the incident occurred around 2:00 p.m. when’s armed bandits attacked Magaje village in Rimi LGA, shooting sporadically and rustling livestock. The perpetrators fled before police arrived.
“The DPO Rimi, alongside neighbouring divisions and the military, quickly mobilised operatives and responded to the scene.
The team successfully tracked and intercepted the suspected bandits at Magaje village, where a gun duel ensued,” the statement said.
All rustled animals were recovered, and three suspected bandits were neutralised. Tragically, CSP Sani-Kabir was fatally shot, while one police officer sustained a gunshot injury to his hand.
The injured officer has been hospitalised and is responding to treatment.
Katsina State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Bello Shehu, praised the courage and coordination of the joint security team while mourning the DPO.
“He was an upright, honest, and professional officer,” Shehu said, extending condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased.
