The Katsina State Police Command said its operatives neutralised a suspected kidnapper and gunrunner in a targeted operation conducted on November 11th, 2023.
ASP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, the spokesperson of the Command, said the incident unfolded at approximately 0330hrs following a tip-off about the activities of individuals armed with dangerous weapons in a farm on the outskirts of Yankara village, Faskari LGA, Katsina State.
The police, acting swiftly on the received intelligence, engaged in a planned operation that included police operatives, vigilant members and officers from the Katsina State Security Watch Corps.
During a tense confrontation with the suspected kidnappers, the criminals opened fire. The officers, displaying valour and determination, effectively retaliated, compelling the offenders to abandon their malevolent plans and hastily escape into the nearby bushes, as noted by ASP Sadiq.
A thorough search of the scene revealed the body of a neutralised suspected kidnapper identified as Nazifi Ibrahim, a 22-year-old male from Unguwar Tsamiya village, Faskari LGA.
Recovered after the operation was a significant cache of ammunition concealed in a sack. The haul included 185 live rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 90 live rounds of 5.56mm M193 type 06 ammunition, and 13 AK-47 magazines.
ASP Sadiq mentioned that efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects as the investigation progresses.
CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa commended the professionalism, synergy, and bravery exhibited by the operatives during the operation. He urged officers and DPOs to foster strong collaboration with relevant security agencies in their respective Local Government Areas (LGAs) and work closely with the State Security Watch Corps to enhance the security of citizens’ lives and property.
The Katsina Police Commissioner also urged residents in the state to remain actively involved in providing essential and timely information about criminal activities in their neighbourhoods.
CP Musa underscored the significance of community collaboration, stressing the need for residents to report any individuals displaying suspicious injuries to the nearest police station.
