The Katsina State Commissioner of Police, Ali Umar-Fage, has directed an intensive manhunt for armed bandits responsible for a reprisal attack on communities in Kankia Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, Umar-Fage noted that prior security operations in the area had recorded significant successes against criminal groups operating within the locality.
He explained that on April 29, police operatives disrupted a cattle rustling attempt in Gadar, Yan Tulu and Kartaka villages.
“Police recovered 205 animals, comprising 91 cows and 114 sheep, during the operation,” he said.
According to him, officers also successfully repelled another attack on Matinjin village on Saturday.
“Several bandits fled with gunshot injuries, while eight motorcycles linked to their operations were recovered,” he stated.
However, the criminals reportedly regrouped and launched a fresh assault on Jeka da Kolo and Kwalgoro villages on Sunday.
“The attack occurred around noon, killing 11 persons before tactical teams were mobilised to repel the assailants,” he said.
Umar-Fage condemned the incident, describing it as “cowardly and barbaric” while extending condolences to the bereaved families.
He assured that security forces would ensure those responsible are apprehended and brought to justice.
He further disclosed that additional tactical units had been deployed to the affected communities to reinforce ongoing security measures.
“Bush combing operations and coordinated patrols are ongoing to track the fleeing suspects,” he said.
Reaffirming the command’s resolve, Umar-Fage pledged sustained efforts to restore peace across the state.
“We will not relent until peace and normalcy are fully restored,” the commissioner said.
He also called on residents to remain calm, stay vigilant, and support security agencies with credible information.
“Further developments will be communicated as investigations progress,” he added.
