By Francesca Hangeior
The Nigeria Police Force has successfully thwarted an armed bandit attack in Katsina State, neutralising seven bandits and recovering 109 rustled livestock.
The operation, which took place on January 18, was a direct result of the force’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing aimed at enhancing national security.
According to a press release issued by the Force Headquarters on Monday, the Dutsinma Divisional Police Headquarters in Katsina received a distress call regarding an impending attack on Ruwan Doruwa Village, Dutsinma LGA.
Acting swiftly, police operatives, in collaboration with other security agencies, mobilized to the area to intercept the armed bandits.
Upon arrival, the police engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle, resulting in the neutralisation of seven bandits, while the remaining members of the gang fled the scene, abandoning 109 livestock suspected to have been rustled. The police were able to recover the livestock, averting further criminal activities in the area.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, further emphasised the effectiveness of the police’s intelligence-driven approach, which has been central to the ongoing fight against banditry and other violent crimes in Nigeria.
“This operation is a clear demonstration of our continued efforts to confront armed banditry head-on.
“The police operatives responded promptly to the distress call, and their courage and dedication to protecting the citizens of Katsina State resulted in the successful neutralization of the bandits.
“By neutralizing the bandits and recovering the livestock, we have not only protected the people but also disrupted criminal operations in the region”, Adejobi explained.
The police’s success in this operation also underscores the growing effectiveness of intelligence-led policing, which has become a central component of Nigeria’s security strategy. The recovered livestock, which were suspected to have been rustled from local farmers, were returned to their rightful owners as part of the operation’s successful conclusion.
In a broader context, the Nigeria Police Force has continued its commitment to combat various criminal activities, including banditry, human trafficking, and armed robbery. This particular operation in Katsina is just one of many recent successes that have reaffirmed the Force’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of Nigerians.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the lives and properties of citizens. We will continue to take a firm stance against criminal activities and ensure that all offenders are brought to justice,” ACP Adejobi stated.